JAKIM Developing Module To Curb Extremism Among Foreign Workers

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is developing a specialised module to curb the spread of radical ideologies among foreign workers in the country.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said the initiative will be carried out in collaboration with the Home Ministry and Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to ensure its effectiveness.

He said efforts to counter extremist ideologies, such as certain group from Bangladesh, would not only protect Malaysia but also benefit the workers’ countries of origin.

“Some of these individuals are suspected of involvement in efforts to destabilise their governments,” he told reporters after officiating the Corporate Zakat 2025 event here today.

JAKIM has long promoted wasatiyyah (moderation) through seminars, lectures and sermons in line with the MADANI framework, he added.

“We want them to return to the true moderate teachings of Islam. If we can assist in rehabilitating their ideology, we are not only protecting our country but also helping to prevent threats in their countries of origin,” he said.

On July 4, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain disclosed that police had dismantled a militant cell involving Bangladesh nationals, allegedly linked to fundraising and recruitment efforts in support of the Islamic State (IS) in Syria and Bangladesh.

Separately, Mohd Na’im reported that this year’s first-quarter business zakat collection by the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council Zakat Collection Centre (PPZ-MAIWP) reached RM76 million.

Of that, RM53 million was contributed by 23 corporates, including Tabung Haji, Bank Islam, Amanah Hartanah Bumiputera and Bank Muamalat.

“If more companies embrace zakat as part of their corporate culture, we can help alleviate poverty,” he said.

-- BERNAMA