Improve Character, Eliminate Concerns Over the Tone of Islam Today – PM
SERDANG: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Muslims to engage in self-reflection and improve their character to dispel concerns or feelings of unease that some people have about the way Islam is being presented today.
Speaking at the 2026 National Maulidur Rasul Celebration held at the Grand Hall of the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Cultural and Arts Centre (PKKSSAAS), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), on Tuesday, Anwar said that the failure to demonstrate good morals and exemplary conduct not only makes it more difficult for others to embrace Islam but can also create misunderstandings about the religion itself.
“There is a problem today. It is not merely that people are reluctant to accept Islam; sometimes people feel more anxious about the tone of Islam itself. The problem is not with others — the problem is with us.
“The challenge facing Muslims today is how we can make Islam an example that can be emulated by Muslims and by humanity as a whole,” he said.
Elaborating on the historical context, Anwar explained that the legacy of colonialism has left a profound impact on the thinking of Muslims, causing some to look down on Islamic civilisation.
In this regard, the Prime Minister referred to the term “Isti’mar Ruhi wa Fikri” (colonisation of the soul and mind), coined by scholar Sheikh Muhammad al-Ghazali, which describes the domination of systems and human consciousness to the extent that people admire foreign cultures more than Islamic values.
“Alhamdulillah, the process of Islamisation is changing and awareness is growing.
“However, those entrusted with responsibility — whether administrators, professors, students, or ministers — must be prepared to bring about change and deliver a clear message through good governance and effective leadership,” he said.
At the same time, Anwar said that the Maulidur Rasul celebration should serve as a turning point to inspire renewed spirit, rather than simply maintaining the status quo, as the torch of Islam is dynamic and every episode of the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) offers lessons for humanity.
He expressed hope that Muslims would rise as “Muslimun Haqiqun” (true Muslims) who are capable of bringing enlightenment to society and to the world at large.
During the same event, Anwar also conveyed greetings and appreciation from His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, to all Malaysians who contributed to the success of the celebration, particularly the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).
He said His Majesty, who is currently overseas for medical treatment, continues to pray that Malaysia remains peaceful and sovereign, and succeeds in upholding the dignity of its people as an exemplary nation for the world.
Astro Awani