KUCHING: English 'khutbah' (sermons) should not be controversial, given the increasing Muslim population, including converts, in the region.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that he views English merely as a communication tool, similar to Bahasa Malaysia.
He expressed disappointment over some individuals questioning the use of English for mosque sermons in Sarawak, reported The Borneo Post.
"The English language is one of the tools for communication, especially in areas with a large number of 'mualaf'," he was quoted as saying in his speech at the launch of the state-level 'Program Jelajah Madani Ulama dan Umara 2024' at Wisma Sabati yesterday.
Abang Johari added that a new mosque, to be built near The Spring Shopping Mall, will use English for the Friday prayers' 'khutbah' to help the congregation better understand the sermons, reported the news portal. He added that in his view, Islam is a religion open to everyone.
Abang Johari also called for an improvement of the roles of 'ulama' (religious scholars) and 'umara' (administrators) in state administration to ensure quality and balanced education for the younger generation.
He also spoke on plans to develop an international school specifically for Muslim students, with a curriculum combining Al-Azhar University (Egypt) and Cambridge programs, in collaboration with Singapore.
Abang Johari said the state government had established five international schools in Sarawak, which welcome both Muslim and non-Muslim students.