SINGAPORE: (Bernama) The passing of Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) chairman, Prof Datuk Dr Muhammad Nur Manuty, on Thursday (June 26) is not only a great loss to the ummah in Malaysia but also in Singapore.
Muslim Converts’ Association of Singapore (MCAS) President, Muhammad Imran Kuna, said Muhammad Nur was one of the pioneers who helped establish the association’s education system and remained an important consultant to its work until his passing.
Muhammad Imran said that during a visit to Muhammad Nur’s home last month when he was unwell, the former senator’s parting words were a reminder to ensure that the Muslim ummah in Malaysia and Singapore remain united and continue working together.
"He wanted us to be the bridge, and for the ummah to strengthen and hold hands. Insha Allah, we will continue to uphold his niat (intention) and request,” he told Bernama.
Muhammad Imran added that the IKIM chairman was instrumental in fostering collaboration between MCAS and other Muslim associations and organisations in Malaysia.
"He was one of those who believed in what we wanted to do and had great ideas. He was a great inspiration and will always be remembered by us.
"He was supposed to be one of the pillars supporting the first Asia-Pacific Cross-Culture Conference, which we are planning to hold in Singapore in November, and also a major Quran-related project we intended to launch in Singapore,” he said, noting that he had known Muhammad Nur for 15 years.
In January, MCAS, which is also known as Darul Arqam, honoured Muhammad Nur with its highest accolade at the inaugural MCAS Academic Excellence Award ceremony, in recognition of his dedication, leadership, and transformative impact on the association.
As the MCAS’ Islamic education consultant from 2000 to 2009, Muhammad Nur played a key role in refining the Islamic education curriculum and da'wah methodologies.
According to MCAS, he was central in developing specialised courses for new Muslim converts, covering subjects such as Aqidah, Fiqh, and Sirah.
His efforts also extended to revising textbooks, conducting seminars, and organising workshops aimed at enhancing the educational experiences of new Muslims from diverse backgrounds.
Muhammad Nur passed away at Sultan Idris Shah Hospital in Serdang at 11.27 am on Thursday at the age of 76. - Bernama
