Malaysian Family concept vital for shaping country’s future, says Idris

ABU DHABI: The Keluarga Malaysia (Malaysian Family) concept is a symbol of the government’s commitment because unity among the people is the most important element in shaping the country’s future, says Datuk Idris Ahmad (pic).

The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) said Malaysia, which is made up of various religions and ethnicities, had maintained stability through unity.

Speaking at the World Muslim Communities Council International Conference here on Monday (May 9), he said Malaysia had implemented and translated the fiqh (understanding) of al-Ta’ayush which laid down three main principles in building good fraternal relations with all components of society.

“First, brotherhood among fellow Muslims (ukhuwwah Islamiyyah); second, brotherhood among fellow citizens (ukhuwwah wataniyyah); and third, brotherhood among fellow human beings (ukhuwwah basyariyyah).

“Brotherhood among Muslims is the greatest social idea,” he said, adding that this was stated in the Quran (Surah al-Hujurat verse 10).

Idris said ukhuwwah basyariyyah is based on a bond that grew and developed on universal human values ​​regardless of racial, religious, traditional, belief and cultural background.

He added that Malaysia is known as a harmonious country because it guaranteed diversity as enshrined in the country’s Constitution.

Idris said he believed that unity and solidarity among Muslims around the world was very important in determining harmony and ensuring the stability of a country.

He said it would be a great loss if the ummah did not give emphasis to the unity agenda because it would definitely lead to division and further weaken the Muslims themselves.

Themed “Islamic Unity: The Concept, Opportunities and Challenges”, the two-day international conference, which begins Monday, brings together Islamic figures from around the world.

It was officiated by the UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan. – Bernama