Muslims urged to assist state religious authorities to address challenges

The Muslim community and Islamic religious authorities in the states should play a collective role in addressing modern challenges that could affect the faith of the Muslims, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom said on Saturday.

He said with the rapid technological advancement, the less-educated young people were easily influenced, including with programmes carried out elsewhere and referred to the recent "I want to touch a dog" programme as an example.

"I see the need to filter programmes that go against the Islamic teachings," he told reporters after a meeting with religious teachers and mosque officials in Perlis here.

He called on all quarters against doing anything that could touch on religious sensitivities.

On the 'Halloween' celebration, he advised Muslims against celebrating it as it could result in them violating the Islamic principles.

Also present was Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Azlan Man and Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) Director-General Datuk Othman Mustapha, who earlier presented a cheque for RM8.2 million to Perlis Islamic Religious Affairs Department director Mohamad Sokri Husin.

The money was for allowance payment to Islamic religious teachers and mosque officials in Perlis.