By MOHD IZHAM BIN HASHIM
KOTA KINABALU: The true strength of the Muslim community, or Ummah, lies not in numbers or wealth but in knowledge, values and character, said Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Nor.
“The culture of knowledge is a legacy that empowers awareness, fosters intellectualism and strengthens the identity of Muslims,” he said at a seminar commemorating the late Prof. Dato’ Dr Siddiq Fadzil at Dewan Saadah yesterday.
In his officiating address, Hajiji emphasised the importance of reviving the spirit of tadabbur (reflection) of the Quran and nurturing a love for knowledge as guiding lights in meeting modern-day challenges.
“In a world filled with uncertainties, it is vital for the next generation to equip themselves with knowledge, principles and strong values,” he said.
The text of Hajiji’s speech was delivered by State Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Datuk Ariffin Arif.
Hajiji urged the Muslim community, particularly the younger generation, to draw inspiration from Dr Siddiq, who was among the key figures shaping the progressive direction of Islamic education in Malaysia.
“Dr Siddiq’s approach to Islam, known as Manhaj Malizi, is described as a progressive, moderate and inclusive model of Islamic thought, relevant to Malaysia’s diverse, multicultural society, especially in Sabah,” he said, adding that Dr Siddiq’s teachings reject extremism and division.
He also expressed appreciation to the organisers for hosting the seminar, which serves as an intellectual platform to honour the invaluable contributions of Dr Siddiq, who is a renowned Islamic missionary figure, educator and thinker both in Malaysia and internationally.
Hajiji noted that the late Dr Siddiq was not only an exceptional writer and orator but also steered the Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (ABIM) and the Association of the Intellectual Advancement of Muslim Ummah (Wadah).
“The message of Islam should be conveyed with kindness and peace, which are crucial to building a harmonious, cohesive and knowledgeable society in Sabah,” he added.
The seminar, which featured forum discussions sessions, was jointly organised by Wadah Pencerdasan Umat Malaysia Negeri Sabah, the Sabah Islamic Religious Council (MUIS), Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka Sabah, and ABIM Sabah. Among prominent speakers were Yang-Dipertua, USIA, Datuk Hj Sapawi Hj Ahmad, Chairman of CONCERN, Haji Sainuri Yahmin, Member of the Board of Directors of the Malaysia Dakwah Foundation (YADIM), Chairman of MPPK of the Malaysian Education Department, Datuk Dr Amin Senin, Deputy President of the Sabah Youth Council, Muhd Nur Hilmie Milus, among others.
