Selangor Sultan Pledges To Preserve Sultanate's Islamic Legacy

SHAH ALAM, Oct 29 (Bernama) -- The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, has pledged to preserve the legacy of the Selangor Sultanate by strengthening the faith of the “Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah”, the integrity of “fatwas” (religious rulings), Islamic administration, education, and the advancement of knowledge.

Sultan Sharafuddin said Islamic governance was a profound trust that required integrity and close cooperation among the Selangor Islamic Religious Council, the state government, the Mufti, the Syariah Courts, the State Islamic Religious Department and the state administration.

He said the Malay Sultanate, particularly the Selangor Sultanate, had long served not merely as a symbol of governance but also as a key institution in safeguarding Islam.

“In my view, the legacy of the Selangor Sultanate in empowering Islam is reflected through three core pillars. First, the continuity of governance and the commitment to elevating the status of Islam. Second, the support for a comprehensive and integrated educational system.

“Third, the establishment of institutions that translate Syariah (Islamic law) into policies, fatwas and services for the people,” he said.

Sultan Sharafuddin said these three pillars must be strengthened prudently through approaches that respond to contemporary needs.

His Royal Highness was speaking at the opening of the Multaqa Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj: The Legacy of the Selangor Sultanate in Empowering Islam in the Malay World, held at Dewan Jubli Perak, Sultan Abdul Aziz Building, here.

Also present were the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, and the Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah.

Sultan Sharafuddin also stressed the importance of a mutually reinforcing relationship between the ulama (religious scholars) and the umara (those in authority).

He said the Ruler provided patronage and institutional support, while the ulama had a responsibility to offer sincere and truthful counsel without vested interests that could undermine the integrity of knowledge.

His Royal Highness added that a constructive relationship did not rule out criticism but required proper decorum (adab), respect for respective jurisdictions and a commitment to safeguarding the interests of the ummah (Muslim community).

“History should not be viewed merely as a narrative of success, devoid of trials. Past Malay Sultanates encountered a multitude of challenges. Even as the forms of governance evolved, the sacred trust of upholding Islam remained steadfast. Therein lies the true strength of any legacy,” he said.

On the objectives of the gathering, Sultan Sharafuddin expressed hope that participating scholars would produce meaningful recommendations that could be translated into practical initiatives for the younger generation.

He also called on the public to use digital tools to deepen their religious knowledge rather than relying on short videos containing fragmented information whose authenticity and sources might be difficult to verify.

“Instead, refer to authoritative sources and seek guidance from recognised scholars. To all my subjects, uphold unity and respect the institutions entrusted with the management of Islamic affairs.

“Examine history with honesty, discuss differences with proper decorum, and put forward proposals that are grounded in reality,” he said.

Earlier, Sultan Sharafuddin launched three publications and digital initiatives: the book Sheikhul Islam and the Muftis of Selangor (1930–2021), Compilation of Fatwa Articles (2001–2005) – Volume 1, and the Selangor State Mufti Department’s e-Fatwa System.

-- BERNAMA