Kuala lumpur: A total of 1,500 young 'asatizah' (Islamic religious teachers) from across the country gathered for the inaugural National Young Asatizah Assembly 2026 (HAMKA) held here as a platform for discourse, dialogue, and interaction among youths to discuss the nation's future. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr. Zulkifli Hasan stated that the programme also served as a platform for young asatizah to discuss their role in enlightening society on the true understanding of Islam that was progressive, 'wasatiyyah' (moderate), and dynamic, based on the Quran.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Zulkifli Hasan emphasized the significance of the programme as marking the beginning of a new wave in the young asatizah movement. He announced plans to organize the Young Asatizah Assembly at the zone and state levels more aggressively this year, including throughout Ramadan. A pro tem committee has been established to coordinate the implementation of the programme nationwide, aligning with the Rakan Masjid initiative.
Commenting on the Da'ie Madani programme, Zulkifli mentioned that the initiative was among the key drivers in empowering the role of young asatizah through skills training aimed at carrying out dakwah activities. On the accreditation of asatizah, he emphasized that it should be conducted in accordance with the law and with respect for the jurisdiction of the states. He highlighted the importance of implementing these movements in an orderly manner, ensuring that efforts to strengthen the ecosystem of religious affairs receive support from multiple parties.
In response to debates on social media regarding the determination of the start of Ramadan and Aidilfitri, Zulkifli asserted that they did not affect the role and credibility of the country's 'falak' (Islamic astronomy) expertise. He noted that Malaysia had the advantage of being an international reference in the field of falak, with local expertise recognized among the best globally. He expressed pride in the expertise Malaysia possesses, underscoring that efforts by certain parties to debate this matter would not undermine their advantage.
In another development, Zulkifli mentioned that the announcement regarding the Ujian Penilaian Kelas KAFA (UPKK) results would be made tomorrow.