KUALA LUMPUR: Muslims in the country have been encouraged to spread the true message of Islam, ensuring that it is not being seen in a bad light due to detractors or extremists within the faith.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this was as the country is at a crossroads, with two different understandings of Islam, making the situation difficult.
He also said while the perception of Islam in the West has been distorted and viewed negatively, the image of Islam should not be disapproved of in this country.
"The country is at a crossroad. On one side, the mere mention of Islam provokes some people.
"What is wrong with me mentioning that Jakim (the Malaysian Islamic Development Department) should advise the government?
"Some have made noise, claiming there are attempts to use Islamic programmes to incite the public.
"On the other hand, there are those who approach Islam with hatred, viewing everyone else as bad and evil.
"These people always see themselves as superior and flawless, while the rest of us are deemed inadequate.
"Therefore, we must take a stand and distance ourselves from this nonsense," he said in his speech at the gathering of 24,000 Huffaz at the Federal Territory Mosque today.
Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Moktar and Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.
At the same time, Anwar called upon all Huffaz (Quran memorisers) to continue spreading Islam's true message and to avoid being influenced by negative narratives.
He said this was crucial to saving the country and ensuring Islam is seen in a positive light.
"The Quran provides the foundation for education, so let us rise from our slumber and ignorance; and purify our hearts and spirits.
"Do not stop praying for our country to stay on the right path. May our dear Huffaz embrace the true essence of Islam.
"Reject those who seek to instil hatred and label others as the Dajjal, and carry only the real message of Islam." Anwar also denied allegations that some members of the government are against Islam.
He said that whenever a proposal for allocations for Huffaz students is brought to meetings, all ministers consistently give their full support.
"We do not want Huffaz children to be left behind, which is why Zahid continues to push for ongoing cooperation between ministries.
"We want to ensure that Huffaz children are given the opportunity to establish themselves as both Huffaz and skilled workers in this country."