KUCHING: Muslims must embrace technologies that have enabled the Industrial Revolution 4.0 such as artificial intelligence and Internet of Things.
While pointing out to them the importance of embracing digital technologies and learning the knowledge accumulated by western countries, Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department Datuk Dr Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said they must, at the same time, preserve their culture and identity.
“We as Muslims must learn to apply today’s smart technologies to build and strengthen our unity. While such technologies can develop industries and the economy they also can help Muslims enhance their social development,” he said in his speech before officiating at the closing ceremony of ‘Keagungan AlQuran’ colloquium at Sarawak Islamic Complex yesterday.
He noted that Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies would enable Muslims to develop their skills and explore more comprehensive methods for revitalising our socio-economic development based on Islamic teachings.
“Through this kind of colloquium, we can bring together religious scholars to discuss issues that are closely linked to the lives of Muslims today. It is an effort to enhance Islamic law and determine the direction of our society,” he said.
By organising a platform for scholarly discussions, Dr Abdul Rahman, who is in charge of Islamic affairs, also suggested that the initiative be extended throughout the state.
“With today’s technologies there is no reason for us to miss the Quran. Apps like Digital Quran, Quran Online and so on are very easy to use and obtain.
“In fact, the teaching of Quran online and videos are also widely downloaded through websites and platforms such as Youtube, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, to name a few,” he said.
Among those present were Sarawak Islamic Council president Datuk Misnu Taha and Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) director Ustaz Khalidi Ibrahim.
