Kuala lumpur: Ulama (religious scholars) and preachers must uphold unity, instead of weakening the long-established bonds of brotherhood among Muslims nurtured by earlier scholars. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar emphasized the need for the Muslim community to be guided towards becoming a moderate ummah as it faces challenges such as division, misinformation, misuse of social media, and moral issues.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Na'im highlighted the importance of cooperation between ulama and umarak (leaders) to ensure that the response of religious institutions aligns with religious requirements, public interest, and current realities. He stressed that approaches should be wise, responsive, and balanced. His remarks were made during the launch of the Al-Falah MADANI Carnival and the national-level Ulama-Umarak Tour Programme at Masjid Mengkuang Titi.
Mohd Na'im pointed out that the collaboration between ulama and umarak has been a fundamental principle in Islamic civilisation. While ulama provide spiritual guidance, umarak are responsible for implementing policies, administration, and governance to advance the nation. He also stated that ulama bear the responsibility of guiding society with sound knowledge and advising the umarak with wisdom, rather than harshness.
Furthermore, Mohd Na'im described the role of ulama and academics as extending beyond teaching. They are 'Ashabul Fadhilah' - guides for society, stabilisers in times of confusion, and lights in moments of darkness. He noted that the carnival is part of the ministry's efforts to convey the message of dakwah, promote Islamic values, and bring communities closer to religious services.
The three-day Al-Falah MADANI Carnival, which began yesterday, includes various programmes with religious agencies providing direct services to local communities. The event is expected to attract 10,000 visitors and will continue across all states, featuring the presentation of the Tokoh Murabbi Mithali 2025 awards to imams, takmir teachers, and KAFA teachers. Tokoh Imam Mithali award recipient Agus Lukman Sulam expressed that the honour recognized both his dedicated service and the congregation of Masjid Jamek Al-Mansur in Teluk Intan.