Kedah: Kedah's first Chief Syarie Judge, Datuk Paduka Syeikh Hasbullah Abdul Halim, was named the recipient of the Special Maulidur Rasul Award at the state-level celebration here today. Hasbullah, 85, born in Kuah, Langkawi, expressed his gratitude for the recognition and hoped it would inspire and motivate future generations to contribute towards upholding the glory of Islam in the state.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hasbullah shared insights on his career, noting his appointment as Kedah's first Chief Syarie Judge in 1997 following the enactment of the Syariah Court legislation. Prior to that, the position was known as Kadi Besar (Chief Kadi). His final position in the state government was as Kedah Mufti, a role he held from 2003 to 2009, as he explained to reporters at the celebration held at Wisma Darulaman today.
The Special Award was presented to Hasbullah by the Sultan of Kedah, Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah, and included RM7,000 in cash, a certificate of appreciation, and accompanying gifts. Hasbullah used the occasion to advise Muslims to remain united and avoid negative actions that could lead to conflict or division.
He emphasized the importance of unity, saying, "Society must stand united and consistently avoid actions that sow the seeds of hostility or disrespect towards one another. These positive values must first be instilled within our own community, as Muslims ought to serve as examples to others." He further stressed that mutual respect should transcend racial and religious differences, acknowledging that everyone is a servant of Allah and a fellow human being deserving of respect.
In addition to Hasbullah's recognition, the Tokoh Imam (Distinguished Imam) Award was presented to Che Ismail Bakar, 78, the imam of the Jame' As-Shahab Mosque in Kepala Batas. He received RM7,000 in cash, a certificate of appreciation, and accompanying gifts. Che Ismail Bakar had previously received the Kedah State Best Mosque Award in 2019 and the Kubang Pasu District Tokoh Imam Award in 2023.