PM: Constructive discourse should be promoted, not criticised

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said that constructive discourse should be promoted rather than criticised excessively, especially those involving discussions about the Quran.

In a post on X, Anwar touched on a recent event involving civil servants where he emphasised the importance of values and morals in carrying out duties, trust and responsibilities, linking them to the story of seven “Ashabul Kahfi” (companions of the cave).

That subject has since been widely discussed on social media.

“I relate the story of the seven young men as mentioned in Surah Al-Kahf in the Quran, where during that time, the unjust system, government, and a cruel king who worshipped idols were rejected by the believers, including these youths who took refuge in a cave.

“The message is about the steadfastness and firmness of these young men’s faith that shielded them from polytheism and depravity.

“Therefore, it is appropriate for civil servants to take lessons from this story,” Anwar said.

Misinterpreted

However, Anwar said that his views were misinterpreted to the extent that some were criticised and ridiculed by certain parties, including preachers and scholars, which he described as excessive and unacceptable.

In a short video uploaded in the post, Anwar said his intention in delivering such a message to civil servants was to remind them that economic sustainability, progress, and good governance should be aligned with faith, values, and morals.

“That is why when I was appointed as prime minister, among the first books that I requested Jakim (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) to distribute widely was ‘Adabul Ikhtilaf Fil Islam’ by the late Taha Jabir al-Alwani, which discusses ethics of disagreement in Islam,” he said.

The Tambun MP cited those who display blind devotion to their political parties and resort to criticising, cursing, and slandering people who are not with them, to the extent of labelling them the worst of enemies.

“That is why I requested that this book be read because there are ways of voicing differing opinions,” he said.

Anwar also explained that the move to introduce Imam Al-Nawawi 40 Hadith module to Muslim students in schools starting next year is aimed at enhancing the public’s understanding of Islam.

- Bernama