Muslims have been urged to practice the principles of 'wasatiyyah' or moderation and be wary of misinterpreting the concept of 'jihad.'

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said that by sticking to the true Islamic law, Muslims in this country will not deviate from the right path.

"Let alone trapped in the extreme ideology of the Daesh militant group, nor become too liberal," he said in his message to mark Maal Hijrah 1438H celebration themed 'Islamic Brotherhood, Fundamental to Unification of Muslims’.

Najib also reminded the people about the dangers of certain parties who sow the seeds of discord in this country.

"We need to stay away from puppet masters who want to topple a democratically-elected government.

"This is all the work of foreigners and their poisoned darts. It is a new form of colonialism."

He asked whether Muslims are respected for their knowledge, morals and civilisation or misunderstood as extremists and terrorists.

For Malaysia, he said, UMNO, via the Barisan Nasional (BN) government has for nearly six decades, uplifted and practised Islamic teachings.

Najib noted that Malaysia has become a role model Islamic country that is advanced and progressive in the world.

He referred to the 'State of Global Islamic Economy 2015/2016' report by Thomson Reuters which put Malaysia in first position from 73 countries worldwide.

Malaysia is also the world's largest 'sukuk' (Islamic bond) issuer with about 55 percent of total global sukuk worth over US$320 billion as at end 2015.

For the first report after the Syariah Index was launched in 2015, Malaysia received an overall score of more than 75 percent in various areas.

"However, there is still much to be done in meeting the Muslim agenda including reinforcing unity, having command of knowledge and skills and economic empowerment."

He said most importantly, Muslims have to strive to create a young generation of 'ulul albab.'

"In other words, a young generation that is dynamic, competitive, and with the qualities to restore Islamic civilisation."

Najib wants Malaysia to continue being a role model Islamic country from all aspects, especially in the economy, politics and community.

"Muslims and Malaysians must go for transformation and paradigm shift, always practise a culture of perseverance, discipline and being systematic in carrying out the duties and trust in the face of future challenges." -- Bernama