PERKIM’s Honorary Secretary-General Facilitates the Embrace of Islam by Chinese Youth from Sabah

by: SRZ

KUALA LUMPUR, 25 AUGUST 2025 – The noble intention of a Chinese youth from Tawau, Sabah, to embrace Islam was finally fulfilled earlier today at the Surau Jumaat Muslim Welfare Organisation Malaysia (PERKIM), PERKIM Building, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah.

The blessed occasion was officiated by the Honorary Secretary-General of PERKIM, YBhg Dato’ Dr Haji Mohamad Marzuki Mohamad Omar, who guided Chong Kui Chen, 27, through his conversion to Islam in a serene and deeply grateful atmosphere.

Chong, a microbiologist based in Singapore, attended the ceremony accompanied by four friends.

Two of his friends, Muhammad Rusydi Mohd Zawawi, 30, and Muhammad Sawatullah Aniq Abdullah, 27, acted as official witnesses to his conversion, while the other two provided moral support for his decision.

Dato’ Dr Marzuki led Chong in reciting the Two Testimonies of Faith (Shahadah) in Arabic, word by word, before repeating the English translation to ensure his full understanding of the sacred declaration.

With unwavering confidence, Chong uttered, “Ashhadu alla ilaha illallah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadar Rasulullah,” officially marking his entry into Islam.

Following the Shahadah, PERKIM’s National Da’wah and Human Development Officer, Ustaz Muhammad Jais Mariappan Abdullah, recited a heartfelt supplication. The atmosphere was filled with emotion as attendees congratulated Chong and embraced him, commemorating this significant spiritual milestone.

Dato’ Dr Marzuki expressed his gratitude for the divine guidance granted to Chong. He emphasised that embracing Islam is the beginning of a lifelong journey requiring continuous guidance.

“Islam is a religion of fitrah that brings mercy to all creation. At PERKIM, we are always ready to assist new Muslims in deepening their understanding of Islam,” he said.

Chong, who took a few days off from his work in Singapore, explained that his decision was made out of personal conviction, free from any external pressure.

“I chose Islam because I believe in the greatness of Allah SWT and the truth of the teachings brought by His Messenger,” he shared after the ceremony.

He added that his interest in Islam developed over time through his interactions with Muslim friends.

“I observed that Islam promotes discipline, sincerity, and compassion among people. That strengthened my resolve,” he said with a smile.

Chong expressed joy in embracing Islam in Malaysia, a nation known for its inter-ethnic harmony. He was advised to continue Islamic learning at the Muslim Converts’ Association of Singapore (MCAS) after working hours and to attend classes at PERKIM’s Islamic Studies Class (KPIPK) at the PERKIM Building during his stay in Malaysia.

Immediately after the conversion, Chong received a personalised briefing from PERKIM’s National Da’wah and Human Development Officer, Ustaz Sulaiman Ding Yu Zhong, covering the basics of Islam.

The session included the meaning of the Shahadah, the Six Pillars of Faith (Rukun Iman), the Five Pillars of Islam (Rukun Islam), and the responsibilities of a Muslim, all explained in Mandarin for better understanding.
“PERKIM ensures that every new Muslim receives proper guidance immediately after embracing Islam. Delivering explanations in their mother tongue is crucial for clear and accurate understanding,” said Ustaz Sulaiman.

Additionally, Chong received a conversion kit sponsored by the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS), which included essential religious items such as the Qur’an, prayer mat, Fardu Ain guidebook, prayer manual, Iqra’ book, skullcap, and prayer beads – all intended to provide practical guidance for his new life as a Muslim.

The ceremony concluded with a group photo session with PERKIM leadership, reflecting the organisation’s mission to uphold Islam as a blessing for all through wisdom and compassion.

The event was witnessed by the top leadership of PERKIM, including Assistant Honorary Secretary-General YBhg Datuk Mohamad Nordin Ibrahim; Senior Director of Da’wah, YBhg Dato’ Haji Razali Haji Shahabudin; Director of Development and Assets, YBhg Dato’ Haji Ahmad Mustafa; Director of PERKIM Kota Bharu Islamic Da’wah Institute, YBhg Dr Ramle Abdullah; Director of International Islamic Da’wah Institute PERKIM Kuala Lumpur, YBhg Haji Mamat Che Chik; Director of Education and Human Development, YBhg Dr Suariza @ Hidayah Muhammad; and PERKIM Executive Secretary, Zulkefli Arifin.

Dato’ Dr Marzuki guided Chong in reciting the Shahadah in Arabic, word by word, before he repeated the translation in English as a sign of understanding the sacred declaration.

Upon completing the recitation of the Two Testimonies of Faith (Shahadah), Ustaz Jais Mariappan (left) led the thanksgiving prayer.

Dato’ Dr Marzuki embraced Chong while congratulating him on becoming a Muslim.

Chong posed for a commemorative photo with PERKIM leadership, holding up the index finger gesture symbolising the Shahadah.

Ustaz Sulaiman Ding provided an explanation on the Five Pillars of Islam and the Six Pillars of Faith in Mandarin.

Chong listened to Ustaz Sulaiman Ding’s explanation regarding what is permissible (halal) and prohibited (haram) in Islam.

Ustaz Sulaiman Ding handed over the MAIS conversion kit to Chong in the presence of his friends.