Latest news with #NazrinMuizzuddinShah
New Straits Times
01-07-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Sultan Nazrin urges Muslim unity, integrity in leadership amid modern challenges
PUTRAJAYA: Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, has called on Muslim leaders to revive the spirit of unity, humility and justice that once defined the leadership of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Delivering his royal address at the 73rd Meeting of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI), Sultan Nazrin said it was timely to reflect on the historical significance of the hijrah and the lessons it offers in fulfilling communal obligations. "The migration of the Prophet from Makkah to Madinah was a pivotal event in Islamic history, and it marked the founding of the first Islamic state. "The Islamic state was built upon the support of a multiracial, multi-tribal and multi-faith society. "Although Muslims were a minority, they were entrusted with governance, gained through the Prophet's wisdom in fostering unity across communal divides. "The Prophet succeeded in cultivating a harmonious society by promoting tolerance and mutual respect, establishing productive working relationships, and formulating strategic approaches to defence and coexistence," he said. Also present were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar. At the same time, Sultan Nazrin said the Prophet introduced a governance model that placed the rule of law above the rule of man, leading to the Madinah Constitution, the world's first written constitution based on one government and one legal system. He said the Prophet led with humility, always mindful of his role as Allah's servant and messenger. Sultan Nazrin also drew parallels between the Madinah Constitution and the formation of Malaysia's Federal Constitution (FC), saying both were products of visionary and sincere leadership. He highlighted both as models of pluralistic governance built on consensus, justice and the rule of law. "In just two months, our nation will celebrate its 68th year of independence. "The circumstances surrounding the drafting of the Madinah Constitution offer valuable parallels with the formation of the FC. "Malay-Muslim leadership demonstrated fairness by ensuring that non-Malays and non-Muslims were granted religious, cultural and linguistic rights under a unifying concept of 'one nation – one government', with the expectation that all citizens uphold loyalty to the land they call home," he said, adding that the FC is widely recognised as one of the most detailed written constitutions in the world. Sultan Nazrin said the strength of Malay-Muslim leadership before and after independence was rooted in public trust, built on integrity, selflessness, and a deep commitment to national welfare. These leaders, he said, felt the heartbeat of the people, wept for the poor, stood by their word, governed with integrity, rejected the abuse of power, and remained free from corruption. He said the Malay-Muslim community's unity stemmed from their commitment to dignity, religious sanctity, diversity, respectful dialogue, and rejection of extremism and sensationalism. He also reminded the ummah to appreciate and protect what they have, cautioning against overestimating their strength or falling into delusions of grandeur. "As we step into the new Hijrah year and prepare to mark the 68th anniversary of our independence, it is a timely moment for the community (ummah) to reflect that it is better to hold on to what we already have than to risk losing it in pursuit of something seemingly better. "Today's Muslims and Malays must not overestimate their strength, nor fall into delusions of grandeur. "Past generations led with strength because they recognised their weaknesses and chose to unite their assets, talents and values. "They drew people near, welcomed those afar, and embraced the wise, the wealthy and the humble alike," he said. Sultan Nazrin also warned that current disunity among Malays and Muslims — marked by mockery, accusations and internal sabotage — threatens to undo what previous generations worked hard to build. "If this pattern persists, Muslims and Malays will not need external enemies to destroy what they themselves have neglected to protect," he cautioned.
New Straits Times
28-06-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
NST Leader: Navigating together for a cohesive future
Social cohesion may be a modern phrase, but it is an ancient idea of a solution for a fragmented world. The old world struggled to create what an old African tradition calls an "I am because we are" cohesiveness; ours, too, is struggling. Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah offered four guiding principles to build the cohesive societies we yearn for in his keynote address titled "Navigating Uncertainty" to the 3rd International Conference on Cohesive Societies in Singapore on Wednesday. But first, a few words on "three interlocking factors" that fuel uncertainty and challenge social cohesion. One is the paradox of digital societies, a challenge that the world of old never faced. Call it a modern rising tide of uncertainty, to borrow the royal phraseology. Why paradox? Well, we are the most connected and yet disconnected at the same time. Think digital echo chambers. Here is Sultan Nazrin's take: "Our digital spaces which should be so good at opening doors and minds, are instead responsible for closing them." Hate speech is an example. The second is international migration. While migration is as old as humanity, never has it occurred in such numbers as people search for safety, opportunity and dignity. In 25 years, according to an estimate by the United Nations, one eighth of humanity will be migrants, escaping climate change, conflict, economic and political instability at home. Sultan Nazrin put it best: "These forces are rewriting the geography of human life." Finally, the uneven economic impacts of globalisation. The sultan acknowledges the "immense benefits" of globalisation between countries, but within them it has been "one of winners and losers". A tough one to disagree with. Losing out is a common story in a world made for, and perhaps even by, the richest one per cent. In the words of Sultan Nazrin, "extremes of inequality enabled the ultra-rich to fund political influence through lobbying, political financing and their control of traditional and social media." A spade is finally being called a spade. So what does it mean to wisely navigate uncertainty? That is the royal question. It means following four guiding principles. Firstly, rebuild trust by reinvesting in the social contract. This requires "transparent institutions, accountable leadership, and civic spaces where people feel seen and heard". Secondly, prioritise equity. This can only happen when "social, economic and ecological justice" is "at the heart of policy". Justice seldom gets spoken like this. To Sultan Nazrin, equity isn't just about disparities among people, but also about imbalances between people and the planet. Yes, close human gaps but don't forget to heal our relationship with the planet. That is the royal advice. Thirdly, embrace pluralism. Some may misunderstand this to mean a call for uniformity. Envisaging this, the sultan is quick to point out that "social cohesion does not demand uniformity". What it requires, though, is respectful accommodation of diversity and perspectives, the sultan contends. Not unlike the purpose of human creation: to get to know each other despite our differences. Finally, imagine boldly. It is a royal call for inclusion, from education to policymaking. Perhaps it is best to end with Sultan Nazrin's magnanimous advice: "Hold space for difference without surrendering to division." We could not have put it better.
New Straits Times
26-06-2025
- General
- New Straits Times
Sultan Nazrin: Habitat destruction a grave sin in Islam
IPOH: Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah has issued a stark warning that the increasing presence of wild animals in human-populated areas signals a deeper environmental crisis, the intrusion and destruction of their natural habitats. "When wild animals begin approaching human settlements, it is a sign that their habitats have been disturbed and encroached upon. "Destroying habitats and endangering the lives of other creatures is regarded in Islam as a grave sin, and those who commit such acts are condemned," he said in his speech at the state-level Maal Hijrah 1447 celebration, themed Migration and Sustainability: Uniting the Muslim Community, Preserving the Earth at the Casuarina @ Meru Hotel here, tonight. Also present were Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim; Raja Di-Hilir Perak Raja Iskandar Dzulkarnain Sultan Idris and Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad. Sultan Nazrin said Islam firmly prohibits all forms of pollution that harm the environment. A damaged ecosystem, he said, not only affects humankind but also disrupts the balance of the entire natural world, leading to disaster and danger. "It is profoundly irresponsible for individuals, whom Allah has blessed with intellect and reason, to knowingly choose the path of destruction. "Let us reflect. Let us awaken. The worsening disasters afflicting our earth are the result of human transgression by those who are ungrateful, who overstep boundaries, defy divine commands, and violate the rights of fellow creations. "It is a collective sin that breeds imbalance and suffering. Every individual, and every stratum of society, bears the shared responsibility (fard kifayah) to ensure a balanced approach to development, one that does not come at the expense of environmental preservation. "A just and sustainable future must be founded on harmony between progress and the protection of the natural world," he said. He said this year's Maal Hijrah theme reflects an awakening to the reality that the Earth is a divine trust to be safeguarded and handed down to future generations. Sultan Nazrin added that the world is facing a series of environmental phenomena that have triggered widespread disasters, endangering both human well-being and the sustainability of our planet. He said the growing population, rising urban density, land clearing for new settlements, infrastructure development, urban expansion, and industrial activity have all directly impacted the natural environment. "These developments should serve as a wake-up call, urging all sectors of society to come together in addressing the escalating environmental crisis. "Islam, as a comprehensive and holistic way of life, places great emphasis on the protection of the environment and regards efforts to preserve it as an act of worship," he said. Sultan Nazrin said the Earth is home not only to humankind but to countless creatures - animals, birds, marine life, plants, and natural resources - all part of a divinely designed ecosystem. "When natural habitats are destroyed, the consequences ripple outward. The encroachment of wild animals into human settlements often signals serious ecological imbalance," he said. He added that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not present faith as mere ritual; rather, he lived as a model of compassion for all living beings and called upon the Muslim community to care for the Earth and preserve its balance. "He taught that humanity and nature are intimately connected, when the Earth is harmed, we all suffer. Therefore, to care for the Earth is to fulfil a spiritual obligation, a visible expression of devotion to the Creator," he said.
New Straits Times
26-06-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Zakat fuels social equity and growth
IPOH: Zakat plays a pivotal role as a powerful instrument of social justice, uplifting those in need and narrowing the gap between the rich and the poor, the Sultan of Perak said. Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah said the collection of zakat has a rich and longstanding history. "Traditionally, it was given directly to religious teachers, who would then distribute it to eligible recipients within their communities. "This approach was rooted in deep trust and faith, but it often lacked proper record-keeping and distribution data. "As a result, it was difficult to track collections and distribution, hindering the full realisation of zakat's intended philosophy and purpose," he said in his speech at the launch of Zakat Perak Al Ridzuan (Zapar) here today. Also present were Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and MAIPk president Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini. Sultan Nazrin said a significant transformation in the administration of zakat collection occurred following the British involvement in the governance of the state. He said that responsibilities for Islamic affairs and Malay customs were entrusted to the Ruler at the state level. "This marked the birth of the institution now known as the Majlis Agama Islam (Islamic Religious Council), first established in Kelantan in 1916. "Subsequently, it became the principal institution responsible for managing Islamic affairs, including the collection of zakat, across all states," he said. Sultan Nazrin said the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) was established on 1 Muharram 1369 Hijri, or Oct 23, 1949, under the Perak State Constitution of 1948. "Subsequently, on May 1, 1952, the Perak state government enacted the law to establish MAIPk. "MAIPk plays a pivotal role not only as a religious advisory body to His Royal Highness the Sultan but also as the Baitul Mal, entrusted with managing Islamic funds, particularly zakat and waqf, in Perak," he said. He said that during the first decade of its establishment, the total amount of zakat collected by MAIPk was below RM400,000. "This was due in part to a lack of awareness about the obligation to pay zakat, the small number of Muslims eligible to contribute, and the relatively low amounts being paid. "Additionally, many Muslims still adhered to the traditional practice of paying zakat directly to religious teachers. "At that time, zakat collection was largely limited to zakat fitrah and agricultural produce, particularly from paddy fields in the sub-districts of Sungai Manik, Seberang Perak, and Kerian," he said. He said that in 2004, MAIPk's total zakat collections, encompassing both property and fitrah, stood at RM26.3 million. "Praise be to Allah, by 2024 this amount had surged to RM253,020,010, reflecting a remarkable 858 per cent growth over the past two decades. "The growth in zakat collections can be attributed to six key drivers that have collectively fuelled its remarkable rise. "First, the rising awareness, understanding, and conviction among Muslims regarding their religious obligation to pay zakat. "Second, an increase in income among Muslims, both individuals and those involved in business and agriculture. "Third, government incentives, including income tax rebates and corporate tax deductions for those who fulfil their zakat obligations," he said. He said the fourth factor is the introduction of wakālah, a delegation mechanism that allows payers greater flexibility in discharging their zakat. "Fifth, continuous improvements in zakat management and administration. And sixth, the growing confidence of Muslims in MAIPk to manage and distribute zakat effectively," he said.
New Straits Times
26-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Sultan Nazrin launches Zapar to strengthen Perak's zakat system
IPOH: The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, today launched Zakat Perak Al Ridzuan (Zapar), a wholly owned subsidiary under the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk), designed to elevate the state's zakat operations. Sultan Nazrin said the formation of Zapar marks a significant step in MAIPk's strategic transformation, in response to increasing zakat collection trends and the growing responsibilities associated with its management. "With zakat collections on the rise, it is both timely and necessary for MAIPk to embark on a bold transformation—reorganising its structure and fostering a more dynamic workplace culture. "At its 227th meeting on Jan 12, 2024, MAIPk resolved to enhance its zakat operations by establishing a wholly owned subsidiary. We have graciously consented to this proposal. "The establishment of Zapar is a strategic initiative designed to enhance efficiency, transparency and accountability within the organisation — a dynamic step forward in delivering a more responsive and higher-calibre zakat collection service to contributors and the community," he said in his speech today. Also present were Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and MAIPk president Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini. Sultan Nazrin added that Zapar is expected to bring significant benefits to both the asnaf (zakat recipients) and the muzakki (zakat payers). "By emphasising effective, structured and digitally driven governance, Zapar will enable this Islamic institution to thrive in a contemporary landscape. With its digital platform, zakat payments can now be made swiftly and conveniently. "Furthermore, technology helps streamline the distribution process, ensuring that aid reaches the right recipients more quickly, supported by accurate and well-documented data," he said. He said Islam is not a religion that focuses solely on a person's relationship with Allah; it also guides and shapes how people connect and engage with one another. "It is a faith that inspires progress and growth — not only in spiritual matters but in material aspects of life as well. Islam advocates the courage to embrace change and transformation. "Hijrah, or migration, is not a one-time event; it is a lifelong journey — a willingness to move forward and continually improve ourselves. Those who resist or fear change risk being left behind. "Therefore, Islamic institutions must be dynamic and adaptable, keeping pace with the digital era and technological progress. That way, they will remain relevant, forward-looking and far from stagnant or outdated," he said. Sultan Nazrin also acknowledged the strong collaboration and commitment of all parties involved in the establishment of Zapar, and expressed his appreciation to those who played a key role in realising the initiative. Meanwhile, MAIPk chief executive officer Syamsul Hazeman Md Salleh said Zapar would become the main platform for Muslims, companies and corporate institutions to fulfil their responsibility of paying zakat and to promote the culture of cash wakaf. "This approach is expected to significantly boost zakat collection and expand its benefits to the eligible asnaf (recipients). "Zapar will manage all matters related to zakat collection, while the distribution of zakat will continue to be fully handled by MAIPk," he said in a statement. Zapar board members are Prof Datuk Dr Ansary Ahmed (chairman), Prof Dr Mohamed Fairooz Abdul Khir, Syamsul Hazeman Md Salleh, Wan Maizura Wan Zahari, Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil, Dr Roszy Non, and Abdul Khudus Mohd Naaim.
