KUCHING: There has never been any conflict between the teachings of Islam and modern science, said Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.
“In Sarawak, the faith of the people and their understanding of Islam have overcome the influence of negative preaching from outside which deviates from true teaching.
“The constitution in Islam encourages Muslims to further seek knowledge, especially through scientific research.
“Thus, the Islamic world during the 13th-15th century was able to progress than Europe at that time, which had just started to introduce science amongst its people,” he said.
Taib said this during the 17th graduation ceremony of Institut Kemahiran Islam Malaysia Sarawak (Ikmas) at the Sarawak Islamic Council here yesterday.
He also said that the Muslim community had a tendency to seek the truth, adding that even in the Koran, Muslims are encouraged to have a solid foundation in learning science.
Taib said Muslims nowadays should look forward to exploring new technology.
“Appreciation is also given to Islamic institutions in Sarawak for bringing together scholars and science discussions with Muslim scholars to find ways and explanations to introduce useful religious views for universal progress.
“Let us hold more discussions with scholars and scientists. Together, bringing in new perspective, which could benefit the world, to be more open-minded with what’s happening nowadays,” he added.
A total of 52 graduates received their Diploma Dakwah Islamiyyah and Diploma Pengajian Islam and Dakwah.
Also present at the ceremony were Taib’s wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Ragad Kurdi Taib, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof, Rural Electricity Assistant Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, who is also in charge of Islamic welfare in Sarawak, Islamic Development Department (Jakim) deputy director general (Human Development) Datuk Paimuzi Yahya and Ikmas director Dr Muhammad Yamin Ismail.
