Don't engage in polemic over hadith module - Abim

The Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (Abim) has urged all quarters not to engage in a polemic over the introduction of the "Imam Al-Nawawi 40 Hadith" module for Muslim students in public schools.

Its president, Muhammad Faisal Abdul Aziz, said the introduction is timely to nurture modesty among the youth, especially Muslims.

"The 40 hadiths gathered by Imam Nawawi encompass moral values from authentic hadiths.

"It can stem the rise of religious extremism in the country, and this, in turn, can be the key to harmony between the multiple races," he said in a statement today.

Faisal (above) further affirmed Article 3 of the Federal Constitution, which stipulates Islam as the country's official religion. Its interpretation, he added, includes Islam as the perfect way of life for Muslims in Malaysia.

Noble values

Therefore, all quarters should generously and respectfully accept the government's initiative in bringing Islamic education that is in line with society's noble values, he stressed.

Recently, the Education Ministry clarified that the "Imam Al-Nawawi 40 Hadith" appreciation module, which was reportedly developed upon the recommendation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, will only apply to Muslim teachers and students.

The Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) expressed "deep concern" over the possibility of non-Muslim students having to learn the module as well. - Mkini