PAS wants ministry to manage Islamic affairs
The Sun (8/5/08): The government should have a specific ministry to manage Islamic affairs rather than attaching the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) as a unit under the Prime Minister’s Department.
Debating on the motion of thanks on the Royal Address in Parliament today, Taib Azamuden Mohd Taib (PAS-Baling) said the present situation put Islamic affairs in a small position.
"The management and administration of Islam in our country has yet to reach the actual standard, in line with contemporary demands. That’s why there are many things related to Islam which are incomplete or troublesome.
"Having once served in Jakim for a long time, I feel strongly for this department," said the PAS central committee member who is former National Mosque chief imam.
He said among the issues yet to be managed efficiently by the government are the Muslim converts, apostasy, fatwa (ruling), zakat (tithe), enforcement on vice activities and haj (pilgrimage).
He also urged the government to seriously show its commitment towards Islamic development so that matters related to the religion are dealt with more professionally.
"For example, the National Mosque chief imam is a contract post. Where is the commitment in enhancing Islam? True, many beautiful district religious offices were built but the manpower is very poor with only one degree holder in each office.
"Islamic television programmes such as Bicara Mufti and Khutbah Jumaat are slotted at 1.30am and after midnight. Who would be watching at this hour? Is this what is meant by Islam Hadhari? Where is the image of Islam?" he asked.
Debating on the motion of thanks on the Royal Address in Parliament today, Taib Azamuden Mohd Taib (PAS-Baling) said the present situation put Islamic affairs in a small position.
"The management and administration of Islam in our country has yet to reach the actual standard, in line with contemporary demands. That’s why there are many things related to Islam which are incomplete or troublesome.
"Having once served in Jakim for a long time, I feel strongly for this department," said the PAS central committee member who is former National Mosque chief imam.
He said among the issues yet to be managed efficiently by the government are the Muslim converts, apostasy, fatwa (ruling), zakat (tithe), enforcement on vice activities and haj (pilgrimage).
He also urged the government to seriously show its commitment towards Islamic development so that matters related to the religion are dealt with more professionally.
"For example, the National Mosque chief imam is a contract post. Where is the commitment in enhancing Islam? True, many beautiful district religious offices were built but the manpower is very poor with only one degree holder in each office.
"Islamic television programmes such as Bicara Mufti and Khutbah Jumaat are slotted at 1.30am and after midnight. Who would be watching at this hour? Is this what is meant by Islam Hadhari? Where is the image of Islam?" he asked.
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