Kuala Lumpur: The Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs Malaysia (MKI Fatwa Committee) has declared Ahli Sunah Waljamaah as the official mazhab, or school of thought, within Islamic jurisprudence in Malaysia from a legal standpoint.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr. Zulkifli Hasan announced the decision, which was made during the committee meeting on October 21 and 22 of last year. The government has initiated several measures to promote the Ahli Sunah Waljamaah approach, focusing on moderation and reducing divisions among Muslims. Dr. Zulkifli emphasized the government’s commitment to Muslim unity and the strengthening of adherence to Ahli Sunah Waljamaah while discouraging extremism from differing ideologies.

During a session in the Dewan Negara, Dr. Zulkifli addressed Senator Datuk Seri Dr. Mujahid Yusof’s query about the MADANI government’s strategy for managing ideological differences affecting Muslim unity. He highlighted the role of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) in collaboration with state Islamic institutions to ensure that Islamic governance aligns with Ahli Sunah Waljamaah principles.

The MKI Fatwa Committee also aims to systematically coordinate and standardize fatwas, including syariah laws, working with state religious authorities. The committee convenes at least thrice annually to ensure fatwas are consistent and serve as references at both national and state levels.

Dr. Zulkifli pointed out that Friday sermons are utilized to encourage moderation, harmony, peace, and unity among Muslims, while also stressing the importance of proper etiquette in handling differences. The government also organizes various activities and programmes employing practical and verbal dakwah approaches to bolster the understanding of Islam.

Additionally, the government enhances educational initiatives such as takmir sessions in mosques and suraus, forum perdana ehwal Islam, MADANI knowledge assemblies, and hadis study sessions to promote Islamic knowledge. In response to a supplementary question from Senator Datin Ros Suryati Alang about guidelines for speakers, Dr. Zulkifli noted that each state has a tauliah (accreditation) committee to oversee, regulate, and approve preaching applications.