The Education Ministry (MoE) has highlighted the significance of incorporating the “Imam Al-Nawawi’s 40 Hadith” appreciation module into school curricula as a crucial measure to combat radicalism and extremism within the community. Stating its commitment to this initiative, the MoE emphasized the module’s potential to foster a genuine understanding of Islam’s universal values and its application within Malaysia’s diverse society. The ministry’s announcement followed a constructive meeting with a coalition of 16 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) representing various communities.
In a move aimed at curbing radicalism and promoting harmony, the Education Ministry (MoE) has championed the inclusion of the “Imam Al-Nawawi’s 40 Hadith” appreciation module in school curricula. This module is perceived as a potent tool to counter extremist ideologies within the community.
The MoE expressed its staunch commitment to this initiative, highlighting its potential to cultivate a nuanced comprehension of Islam’s universal values and its practical manifestation in Malaysia’s multicultural society. This announcement comes in the wake of a productive dialogue between the MoE Minister, Fadhlina Sidek, and a coalition comprising 16 non-governmental organizations (NGOs), each representing diverse segments of the population.
Acknowledging the significance of collaboration, the MoE underlined its dedication to building an inclusive and harmonious “Madani Malaysia.” This aspiration hinges on nurturing diversity within a framework of unity, as echoed by the consensus reached during the meeting.
In alignment with its commitment to transparent communication, the MoE assured that similar dialogues would be periodically held to disseminate accurate information about its initiatives. Emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, the MoE aims to strengthen engagement with stakeholders, thereby advancing its core mission.
The pilot project for the “Imam Al-Nawawi’s 40 Hadith” module will involve Muslim educators and students in National Religious Secondary Schools (SMKA) and 228 Government-Aided Religious Schools (SABK). This endeavor will serve as a foundational step before expanding the module’s reach to encompass schools and classes centered on Islamic Education subjects.
Notably, the coalition of 16 participating NGOs spans a wide spectrum of religious and cultural backgrounds. This includes representation from organizations such as the Federation of Taoist Associations Malaysia (FTAM), the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM), the Malaysian Buddhist Association (MBA), the Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS), the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH), and the Malaysian Gurdwaras Council (MGC).
During the module’s inauguration on August 19, Fadhlina underlined its capacity to cultivate appreciation among teachers and students for the collection of 40 hadith compiled by Imam Al-Nawawi. The focus lies on extracting the inherent values encapsulated within these teachings, with the aim of nurturing Prophet Muhammad’s sayings or “hadith” at the school level.
Clarifying the module’s scope, federal Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui Ying affirmed that the “Imam Al-Nawawi’s 40 Hadith” initiative would be exclusive to Muslim students. Addressing concerns of the non-Muslim community, she assured that the module’s implementation in national and ministry-affiliated schools would solely involve Muslim students.