MUKAH: Dakwah bil hal (preaching through actions) has become the foundation for unity among Sarawakians, who come from various religious backgrounds.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg expressed his gratitude to the people of Sarawak, especially the Muslim community, for upholding unity through these indirect acts of dakwah.
He called on Sarawak to continue setting an example for others, adding that the state’s policies align well with the needs of the Muslim community, particularly through the concept of ‘muraqabah’ (mindfulness), which considers all aspects of life, including lifestyle and the environment.
“Our responsibility is to carry out the trust that has been given to us by working towards a better future.
“This is the foundation of our governance in Sarawak, while at the same time we embrace the responsibility of maintaining harmony and unity among us.
“The Sarawak government is also focused on protecting the environment while advancing the state’s development to a higher level,” he said in his remarks during the Maulidur Rasul assembly and procession in conjunction with the Sarawak state-level Maulidur Rasul celebration at Pehin Setia Raja Square, here today).
Abang Johari stressed that the people should take into account three key characteristics of Prophet Muhammad SAW when fulfilling their duties in this world.
He noted that the Prophet was an exemplary figure to be followed, pointing out that he was called al-Amin, meaning he was the most trustworthy and the best of all mankind.
“The Quran says, ‘I have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds’. He was a man of trust, responsibility, and contributed greatly to the development of humanity,” the Premier added.
On the same note, Abang Johari said the Sarawak government will establish the Islamic Technical College, which will offer opportunities for young Muslims to fulfil their responsibilities through the teachings of the Quran as well as worldly knowledge.
He said this holistic education is crucial for elevating the status of Islam and ensuring that Muslims are respected by other communities.
“Both religious and worldly knowledge must be learned so that we can elevate the status of our faith, earn the respect of others, and become a model for them,” he said.
Also present were Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
