PERKIM Hosts 14th SKOP: “The Development of Mualaf Dakwah in Malaysia”

Safiyya Nur Sakeena Sallehuddin December 19, 2024

87 4 minutes read

by: SAFIYYA NUR SAKEENA SALLEHUDDIN

KUALA LUMPUR, DECEMBER 19, 2024 – The journey of mualaf (new Muslim converts) in Malaysia is a pivotal chapter in ensuring they receive the guidance and support needed to strengthen their faith and understanding of Islam. In recognition of this, the Malaysian Islamic Welfare Organization (PERKIM) organized the 14th installment of its prestigious Siri Kuliah Dakwah Perdana (SKOP) under the theme “The Development of Mualaf Dakwah in Malaysia.” The event took place on Thursday morning at PERKIM’s headquarters in Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, attracting over 250 attendees from various backgrounds.

The program was attended by over 250 participants, including members of PERKIM Headquarters, PERKIM Selayang Baru Branch, PERKIM Nilai Branch, students from the PERKIM National Islamic Studies Class (KPIPK), students from Darul Quran under the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), as well as new Muslims from various ethnicities such as Chinese, Indian, Iban, Kadazan, and Bidayuh, along with individuals from Thailand, the Philippines, Cambodia, Myanmar, and other countries.

Engaging Discussions with Esteemed Panelists

The session was moderated by Da’i Aiman Sufyan Aezman, renowned host of TV3’s Tanyalah Ustaz. The panelists included Dato’ Haji Kamarudin Abdullah, President of the International Islamic Outreach Organization (IPSI), and Lim Jooi Soon, CEO of the Interactive Dakwah and Tarbiyah Association (IDT).

The event commenced with a welcoming speech by PERKIM’s Honorary Secretary-General, YBhg Tan Sri Dr. Mohd Yusof Noor, who emphasized the historical and spiritual significance of mualaf in Islam. Drawing parallels to the earliest days of Islam, he noted that Prophet Muhammad SAW’s closest companions, including Sayyidatina Khadijah and prominent figures like Abu Bakr As-Siddiq, Umar Al-Khattab, and Uthman Ibn Affan, were among the first mualaf.

Dr. Yusof highlighted the importance of bridging knowledge gaps among Muslim converts and fostering greater understanding of Islamic teachings. Inspired by Al-Azhar University’s open academic lectures, SKOP was established as a platform to connect communities, foster learning, and promote dakwah in an engaging manner.

“The vision of PERKIM’s founder, Tunku Abdul Rahman, was to spread the message of Islam to both Muslims and non-Muslims. Today’s event reflects that mission,” he said, extending his gratitude to the panelists for their dedication to dakwah efforts in Malaysia and beyond.

Addressing Challenges Faced by Mualaf

During the panel, the speakers shed light on the unique challenges faced by mualaf in Malaysia. Among them are societal stigma, with many converts labeled as “masuk Melayu” (becoming Malay) and enduring family disapproval. A study revealed that 71% of mualaf experienced family ridicule, while 70% were subject to cultural stereotypes.

Additionally, some struggle to access religious education in languages like Mandarin, Cantonese, Tamil, and Hokkien, which are crucial for their understanding and practice of Islam. To address these issues, the panel emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to create comprehensive support systems for mualaf, enabling them to grow spiritually and contribute to a harmonious Muslim community.

The speakers also shared personal stories of finding Islam, captivating the audience with their heartfelt journeys of faith.

Closing with Appreciation and Hope

The event concluded with the presentation of tokens of appreciation by PERKIM’s Honorary Treasurer, YBhg Dato’ Haji Abdul Hanif Harun, to Dato’ Kamarudin and Lim Jooi Soon. The interactive Q&A session provided a platform for attendees to engage with the speakers, fostering deeper discussions on mualaf dakwah.

Guests were treated to a meal as the program drew to a close, marking yet another successful initiative by PERKIM to strengthen the bonds of the Muslim ummah.

Among the distinguished guests were YBhg Prof. Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Vice President of PERKIM; YBhg Dato’ Haji Ali Ab Majid, National Council Member; YBhg Dato’ Haji Razali Haji Shahabudin, Senior Director of Dakwah; and YBhg Dato’ Haji Ahmad Mustafa, Director of Development and Assets.

The 14th SKOP not only celebrated the ongoing efforts to support mualaf but also reaffirmed PERKIM’s commitment to nurturing an inclusive and thriving Muslim community.

Muhammad Farhan Tee Abdullah steered the program as the emcee for the 14th SKOP session.

Some of the attendees of PERKIM’s 14th Premier Dakwah Lecture Series.

Muhammad Jais Mariappan Abdullah led the opening prayer for the event.

PERKIM’s leadership and SKOP-14 panelists raised their hands in prayer during the recitation.

The audience collectively said “Amin,” seeking blessings and grace for the program.

Dr. Yusof Noor delivered a speech as PERKIM’s Honorary Secretary-General.

Dr. Yusof Noor expressed hope that Islam could be built and expanded, reaching non-Muslims at a faster pace.

Faces of mualafs from various races and ethnicities attended SKOP-14.

The panelists of SKOP-14 included (from left) Dato’ Kamarudin, Da’i Aiman, and Lim Jooi Soon.

Da’i Aiman posed questions to the panelists while captivating the audience with snippets of nasheed songs.

Dato’ Kamarudin also asked a thought-provoking question on dakwah: Who has memorized the 30 chapters of the Quran along with its translation in Malay, Mandarin, or Tamil?

Dato’ Kamarudin urged the production of more books on Islamic fundamentals and the organization of courses for mualafs in their native languages for better understanding.

Lim Jooi Soon shared his 28-year journey and challenges as a convert to Islam.

According to Lim Jooi Soon, those who understand and practice Islamic fundamentals and live an Islamic lifestyle are no longer called mualaf but mukalaf.