Sultan Nazrin calls for balance between modernity, Islamic values
IPOH: Both Muslim character and the identity of the ummah face serious challenges that must be addressed, says Perak Ruler Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
The Ruler said that Muslims are increasingly exposed to global influences.
“Social media, popular culture, entertainment and global lifestyles are shaping the minds of the younger generation.
“Wise and thoughtful efforts, approaches and measures are therefore essential to strike the right balance and ensure that modernity does not erode Muslim principles and identity, thereby preventing a crisis of confidence in one’s own identity,” said Sultan Nazrin when gracing the state-level Maulidur Rasul 1448H celebration yesterday.
Present were Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim, Raja Muda Perak Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa and Raja Di Hilir Perak Raja Iskandar Dzurkarnain Sultan Idris Shah.
Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and his wife Datin Seri Aezer Zubin were also present.
Sultan Nazrin said the unity of the Muslim community is also facing increasingly serious challenges.
The Ruler said that differences in politics, schools of Islamic thought, race and interests, together with the pursuit of influence, rank, position, wealth and worldly luxury, are increasingly outweighing the spirit of brotherhood, causing it to become progressively marginalised.
Sultan Nazrin added that Muslim leaders, Islamic organisations and movements should seek to avoid unnecessary disputes and minimise political rivalry, while giving greater priority to initiatives that can strengthen and elevate the identity of the Muslim community.
The Ruler noted that it is encouraging that individuals and groups are also pioneering positive initiatives and raising awareness of Islamic education, the Islamic economy, Islamic finance, halal industries, Islamic endowments, digital Islamic outreach, and strengthening the family institution.
“These positive efforts must be expanded, strengthened and brought to fruition,” said the Ruler.
Sultan Nazrin said building strong Muslim character was a gradual process that begins with firm faith, is strengthened by knowledge, reflected in noble character and demonstrated through actions.
