Implementing Hadith module will help Muslim youth understand true Islamic teachings, says PM

ISKANDAR PUTERI: The implementation of “Imam Al-Nawawi's 40 Hadith” appreciation module will ensure Muslims youth in the country understand the true teaching of Islam, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister said the government was concerned that the existing Islamic education would cause the young Muslim generation to be easily influenced because they did not fully understand the teachings of Islam.

"The module will be the basis to Muslims, especially the younger generation, for them to master and understand Islam.

"So please do not misunderstand as we are not forcing non-Muslim students.

"Secondly, if the knowledge is as far as it is now, then non-Muslims will think that cursing, slander and making accusations are considered as part of Islam.

"That is why the solution is to study Islamic knowledge that relies on the Al-Quran and the commentary of authoritative scholars," he added.

Anwar said this when met after attending a gathering with the unity government leadership at a hotel here on Friday (Aug 25).

He also said the module was related to the country’s future stability, well-being and harmony of the multiracial and religious society here.

"I hope this explanation will not raise suspicion in our education system. Some do not like Islam to be taught, others use Islam but not with the basis of knowledge.

"Therefore, we have to find the real way, which is to give the understanding of Islam to Muslims and not force non-Muslims," he said.

Earlier, in his speech, Anwar urged the non-Muslim community to understand the move as it was a way to save the future of this country.

"Unless Muslim children are given real religious education and understanding, we will place our children in the hands of Islamic clerics who think they have the religious authority," he added.

Bernama reported that the implementation of the module would involve 61 National Religious Secondary Schools (SMKA) and 228 Government-Aided Religious Schools (SABK) nationwide.

The Education Ministry, in a statement on Friday (Aug 25), said the implementation of the module would only involve Muslim teachers and students.

It said the module was aimed at fostering values of courtesy, love and strengthening religious understanding among Muslim teachers and students.

"This initiative is hoped to produce a generation of children who are good and intelligent and with high morals based on three main elements, namely manners, morality and integrity," it said.