Kuala Lumpur: The Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), through its various agencies, will step up efforts to strengthen national unity and harmony, said its Deputy Minister Dr Zulkifli Hasan. He stated that a key initiative is to enhance advocacy and awareness programmes on Islam to foster greater understanding.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the recent racial issues have further motivated the department, along with agencies such as Yayasan Dakwah Islamiah Malaysia (YADIM), to redouble efforts in promoting harmony by considering all aspects. Dr Zulkifli conveyed this message to reporters after officiating the Terengganu Imam and Takmir Teacher Multaqa conference.

He added that if any recent racial or religious unity issues involved criminal elements or legal violations, the ministry would leave the matter entirely to the authorities. However, Zulkifli emphasized that social media often fuels racial and religious issues, which do not truly reflect the harmony within Malaysian society.

Dr Zulkifli noted that Malaysia has long enjoyed understanding and harmony among communities from various backgrounds, including Chinese and Indian communities. However, he acknowledged that the digital space presents new challenges that must be navigated. The ministry has implemented numerous programmes and engagement sessions, which include representatives from different religions, all conducted in a spirit of harmony.

Earlier, Dr Zulkifli mentioned that the Terengganu Imam and Takmir Teacher Multaqa, which gathered around 200 participants, served as a platform for attendees to raise questions and discuss various issues through dialogue sessions. Among the key topics raised were proposals to further promote harmony within the community, expand the scope of the conference, and address concerns regarding imam and takmir teacher allowances.