KUALA LUMPUR: Muslims must be ready, even obligated, to undergo a 'hijrah' (migration) of the mind and culture, says Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, in conjunction with the Maal Hijrah celebration today.
He said the increasingly complex challenges necessitated a change of mindset and cultural adaptation to meet the demands of the time while staying true to the principles of monotheism to avoid deviating from the true interpretation of life.
He said such move would enable Muslims to understand and interpret contemporary issues from various dimensions and empower them to tackle and master current situations, especially the rapid technological revolution.
"A migration of the mind requires breaking free from ignorance and comfort zones. It requires courage to explore new knowledge, skills, mediums, and methods in line with the needs of the time.
"A mind eager for progress, a wise and rational mind, a liberated mind that is not subservient, and a mind unafraid of change are all essential for a successful migration.
"Cultural migration involves being willing to leave behind obsolete and decayed cultures and embracing a more dynamic culture that reflects noble character, discipline, dignity, honesty, sincerity, and adheres to Islamic principles and values.
"Hijrah or migration is a form of jihad, and those who migrate in the path of Allah will attain success and a better life," he said during the Perak state-level Maal Hijrah 1445H celebration at Casuarina@Meru Hotel today.
He said that the hijrah of Prophet Muhammad was a historic event that successfully laid the foundation for the future orientation of Islam.
He said the act contained strategic values of renewal that transformed the paradigm and thinking patterns of the community, proving that Islam introduced comprehensive teachings that touched all dimensions of human life, not just ritual worship, but also carried a social vision in developing human civilisation.
He said that the event of migration by the Prophet and his companions that happened 1,445 years ago would not recur, but the spirit and willingness to undertake migration must continue to be internalised, serving as a source of inspiration and cultivated within the soul of every individual, especially when navigating the waves of the ever-changing world.
"We are now in the 21st century, an era witnessing technological advancements that enable people to transcend boundaries.
"Thus, we must view the world with a broader perspective and an optimistic mindset.
"We need to be willing to embrace the present reality and abandon outdated traditions and interpretations to break free from ignorance," he added.