SalamWeb wants to promote a safe and secure digital ummah, writes Balqis Lim
THE Internet may be beneficial in many ways but it also opens the door to the dark side. A safe and positive online experience, such as respecting good values and principles, is paramount.
With this in mind, SalamWeb Technologies MY (SalamWeb) has introduced a syariah-compliant browser which offers a range of connected Internet services, including news, chat and other features.
Endorsed by Amanie Shariah Supervisory Board, in conformity with Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation’s (MDEC’s) Islamic Digital Economy Mi’yar, SalamWeb’s products have been thoughtfully designed to optimise the Islamic way of life.
The SalamWeb browser has in-built features called SalamWidgets such as a Qiblat compass, prayer times, daily quotes and a custom news feed aggregated from verified news sources.
SAFETY IS KEY
An important feature of the SalamWeb browser is SalamProtect, an advanced content filter that is customised to an individual’s way of life.
This feature alerts users to inappropriate content, including those that could be potentially explicit, offensive or fraudulent.
SalamWeb managing director Hasni Zarina Mohamed Khan says the browser does not block offensive contents or websites. It simply warns them of the harmful subject matter.
“For example if you type the words ‘gambling’ or ‘murder’ on the browser, it will issue a warning before you can continue to the search results.
“We do not simply block the contents because there are people who are seeking information or would want to read news on these topics.
“It is all about ethical browsing and empowering Muslims to give them control of what they want to consume based on their own values and beliefs,” says Hasni.
Its safety feature is enhanced by SalamTag, a tool which allows users to tag websites or content deemed appropriate, inappropriate, or neutral.
Each SalamTag received is reviewed against internal processes and guidelines to ensure fairness. The more webpages a user tags using SalamTags, the better SalamWeb’s content aggregator works.
Through this feature, SalamWeb will deliver curated content that matches users’ SalamTags. It means every browser will be different and personalised to the user’s needs.
Onceauser tags something that they don’t want to see, it will not appear in their timeline or search the next time they go online.
Meanwhile, in SalamChat, users can enjoy peace of mind when they chat, knowing that it is protected by SalamProtect.
DONATE WHILE SURFING
SalamWeb not only aims to be ethical but also turns the everyday Internet browsing experience into a good deed.
For instance, each web search or content report made by users will be matched to a donation amount made by SalamWeb.
Called the SalamSadaqah, this feature incorporates the Islamic practice of Sadaqah (voluntary charity) to the Internet browsing experience.
“That is where we are different from other web browsers. Users can turn their everyday Internet experience into a charitable cause. Just by using SalamWeb to browse, chat, watch videos, and more, all SalamWeb users contribute to the donation counter.”
Although SalamWeb is targeted at Muslims, it can be used by anyone and is available worldwide.
It is free for download from its website for personal computers and other devices.