Jakim developing module to curb extremism among foreign workers

New Straits Times

09-07-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) is developing a specialised module to curb the spread of radical ideologies among foreign workers in the country.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar said the initiative would be implemented in collaboration with the Home Ministry and the police to ensure its effectiveness.
He said efforts to counter extremist ideologies, such as those associated with certain groups from Bangladesh, would not only protect Malaysia but also benefit the workers' countries of origin.
"Some of these individuals are suspected of involvement in efforts to destabilise their governments," he told reporters after officiating the Corporate Zakat 2025 event here today.
Mohd Na'im said Jakim has long promoted wasatiyyah (moderation) through seminars, lectures and sermons, in line with the Madani framework.
"We want them to return to the true, moderate teachings of Islam. If we can assist in rehabilitating their ideology, we are not only protecting our country but also helping to prevent threats in their countries of origin," he said.
On July 4, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain revealed that police had dismantled a militant cell involving Bangladeshi nationals, allegedly linked to fundraising and recruitment efforts in support of the Islamic State (IS) in Syria and Bangladesh.
Separately, Mohd Na'im reported that business zakat collection by the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council Zakat Collection Centre (PPZ-MAIWP) for the first quarter of this year had reached RM76 million.
Of that amount, RM53 million was contributed by 23 corporate entities, including Tabung Haji, Bank Islam, Amanah Hartanah Bumiputera and Bank Muamalat.
"If more companies embrace zakat as part of their corporate culture, we can help alleviate poverty," he said.