Penang: Fatwa institutions must operate collectively and ensure that any fatwa or religious edict issued is based on information gathering and in-depth analysis of the issue by qualified experts, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. In a Facebook post tonight, Anwar said the matter was among those discussed during his meeting today with the Penang State Fatwa Committee led by Penang Mufti Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Sukki Othman.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that the responsibility of issuing fatwas is a noble and vital duty in providing clarity on religious rulings for the understanding of the ummah (Muslim community). He highlighted the need for fatwas that align with local realities and the current era, suggesting the development of new skills to address contemporary issues and challenges for society’s benefit.

In the same post, Anwar mentioned that he and members of the Penang State Fatwa Committee exchanged views on the development of Islamic scholarship, particularly in matters related to fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), maqasid syariah (objectives of Islamic law), and efforts to strengthen fatwa-related research.