Penang Islamic department clarifies non-Muslim contributions to Islamic institutions

 

Penang Islamic department clarifies non-Muslim contributions to Islamic institutions. SOURCE: MASJID NEGERI PULAU PINANG FACEBOOK

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Islamic Religious Affairs Department has defended its Friday sermon on Aug 7, stressing that contributions from non-Muslims do not confer rights over Islamic institutions.

In a statement on its Facebook page, the department said public concerns over the content of the state's Friday sermon should be considered fairly, calmly and based on knowledge.

It said accepting donations or waqf contributions from non-Muslims did not give them rights in matters involving aqidah, worship, religious leadership or the administration of Islamic institutions.

The department stressed that muamalat and social welfare matters were distinct from religious affairs.

"For example, a non-Muslim who contributes towards the construction of a mosque does not automatically gain the right to serve on its committee, become its chairman, imam or khatib," it said.

It added that accepting contributions did not give non-Muslims rights to use or control facilities reserved for Muslims, including Islamic cemeteries.

The department said assumptions that accepting such contributions could eventually lead to non-Muslims gaining control over mosques, cemeteries or Islamic institutions were unfounded.

It also clarified that accepting a contribution should not be equated with guaranteeing the same spiritual rewards as those received by Muslims.

"Rewards in the hereafter are the absolute prerogative of Allah SWT, and people cannot definitively determine the form or extent of an individual's reward without clear textual evidence," it added.

At the same time, the department said Islam recognised acts of kindness and contributions to society by non-Muslims.

Citing Surah al-Mumtahanah, verse 8, it said Muslims were permitted to act kindly and justly towards non-Muslims who did not fight them because of religion or drive them from their homes.

The department also pointed to Prophet Muhammad's dealings with non-Muslims, including commercial transactions, as evidence that muamalat should not be confused with matters of faith.

It said waqf, mosques, Islamic cemeteries and other religious institutions in Penang remained subject to shariah principles, state laws and the jurisdiction of the relevant religious authorities.

The department urged Muslims to voice concerns and seek clarification, but said criticism should be based on tabayyun, knowledge and an accurate understanding of the issue.

It also called for a wise approach to preaching in Penang's multiracial society, stressing that Islam could remain firm in its principles while promoting justice, good character and respect for others.

"Defend Islam with knowledge, not assumptions. Uphold aqidah with understanding, not fear, and convey the message with wisdom, not prejudice," it said. - NST