Preachers under the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) could receive an increase in allowances during the upcoming Budget 2024.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi raised this when officiating the Madani Mualaf (Muslim converts) Convention at the Institut Latihan Islam Malaysia in Bangi today.
“In the past, these preachers or ‘mubalighs’ were categorised as spreading the Islamic teachings voluntarily. However, the state Islamic bodies and Jakim have taken several initiatives to place them as contracted preachers.
“The allowances given to them, in relative terms, are still low.
“We will wait for the announcement by the prime minister this Friday when his speech for the budget is read. I am unsure if this is part of the budget, but it is what we asked for,” he was quoted as saying by The Star.
Responding to a question, Zahid did not rule out the allowance matching with the minimum wage of RM1,500.
“By right, that is the way. Allowances and pay for contract workers must at least be on par with the minimum wage,” he added.
Zahid also read out Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s speech at the convention, in which the latter said the government is always mindful of the welfare and progress of Muslim converts.
“The number of mualaf is increasing in Malaysia on a yearly basis and this is a positive development which should not stop,” he said.
Dedication appreciated
Anwar also paid tribute to the frontliners of Jakim and state Islamic departments for spreading the faith despite the trials and tribulations as well as poor financial rewards.
The prime minister noted how some were of the lower grade while others were hired on a contract basis but this did not deter them from their task.
“Some are willing to cross jungles on a motorcycle or on foot.
“Working night and day, regardless of the weather, come rain or shine, to ensure that the true understanding of Islam reaches everyone in Malaysia,” he added.
On the same note, Anwar said spreading an accurate understanding of Islam will increase the confidence of Muslims in their faith as well as provide “clarity of thought” to non-Muslims to avoid misperceptions. - Mkini
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