Haslina Ibrahim | International Islamic University Malaysia (original) (raw)

Papers by Haslina Ibrahim

Research paper thumbnail of A Comprehensive Examination of Exclusive Breastfeeding Through Quranic and Hadith Perspectives Alongside Scientific Insights

International journal of academic research in business & social sciences, Jun 25, 2024

This article delves into the importance and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in Islam, a... more This article delves into the importance and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in Islam, as supported by the Quran and Hadith, while also analyzing its advantages through religious and scientific perspectives. EBF entails feeding infants solely breast milk for the first six months. Research highlights the remarkable advantages of EBF in enhancing the health of both infants and mothers, from both religious and scientific viewpoints. The positive impact of EBF on infant growth is highlighted, emphasizing its crucial role in providing essential nutrients for brain and immune system development. Additionally, EBF provides immunization protection through antibodies in breast milk and fosters a strong emotional bond between mother and infant, potentially enhancing emotional intelligence. Beyond immediate benefits, EBF acts as a preventive measure against chronic diseases in adulthood. Recognized as a crucial strategy for optimal infant growth, EBF yields lasting positive effects on long-term health and well-being. The forthcoming research will adopt a qualitative approach through an extensive literature review to appraise the importance of breastfeeding in infant development and scrutinize scientific revelations on its advantages, conducting comprehensive literature reviews of Islamic and scientific sources to assess breastfeeding's significance and benefits. Data will be extracted from various written sources, including the Quran, Hadith, books, journals, reports, and newspapers. The study's results are vital for offering in-depth insights to the community, promoting awareness of breastfeeding benefits, and encouraging a commitment to adopting breastfeeding practices for the benefit of their offspring. Furthermore, this article proposes several further research avenues to deepen our

Research paper thumbnail of Hamka’s Daʿwah Reform: Islamisation of Self, Education and Institution

Al-Itqan, Dec 31, 2022

Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah or HAMKA (1908-1981) was a prominent Malay scholar and also an icon of... more Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah or HAMKA (1908-1981) was a prominent Malay scholar and also an icon of daʿwah Islamiyyah. Although his name and works are common to the Malays, his daʿwah orientation needs to be explored further in view of the lethargic conditions of present daʿwah movements in the Malay lands. Granted the title Pahlawan Nasional Indonesia, Hamka's thought epitomised the idealism of daʿwah reform, and his activism symbolises the institutional configuration of daʿwah. Hamka went beyond the rhetoric slogan of Islam as a way of life when he brought tangible solutions to the problems that happen in society. The core inventory to that tangible solution, in his opinion, should start with oneself i.e. Islamisation of self, before any meaningful daʿwah can be administered to the community and institutions. This article attempts to promote Hamka's daʿwah reform; a synergised intellectualism and activism that are missing from the contemporary da'wah orientations and led to its adversary effect on public understanding and practice of Islam.

Research paper thumbnail of European Proceedings of Social Behavioural Sciences

The trend of modern materialistic society modifies several different dimensions of an individual ... more The trend of modern materialistic society modifies several different dimensions of an individual life. The change is identified to be liable for the transformation of a selfless, warm and cordial individual to a cruel, soulless and self-centred man in modern society. The novel Saul Bellow's Seize the Day 1956 portrays the American capitalist society where material goods are considered more valuable than family member relationships; money is more important than love and the eternal goal is more precious than cordiality. In this society 'man is alone in a crowd. It is observed that Bellow's novel has a realistic reflection of American society when the country was uplifting to its zenith; development, prosperity, and property were the last pronounced words at the end of the day. This article examines the influence of materialism among the characters and discusses how the impact of materialism affects social bonding between siblings. Bellow's sense of changed human psychology, changed social relations and the representation of protagonists warns us that sooner or later the difference between a robot and human beings may not be distinguished. So, the novel may be analyzed through the lens of alienation, depression and discrimination in a heartless, selfcentred modern capitalist society.

Research paper thumbnail of Revert Daie: Lived Experiences of Indian Preachers in Malaysia

International Journal of Islamic Thought

Preachers are people who deliver Islamic message or speech to the communities around them. This i... more Preachers are people who deliver Islamic message or speech to the communities around them. This is because the agenda of preaching has been inherent in a Muslim and preaching is also one of the duties of the previous prophets. In Malaysia, the participation of non-Malay preachers such as Indian and Chinese preachers in delivering preaching is constantly growing from time to time. Furthermore, the involvement of Indian Muslims in the arena of preaching still receives less attention in academic studies, although it is undeniable that they also play a role in developing da'wah in Malaysia. It can be seen, most academic studies focus more on aspects of converts such as the welfare of converts, the management of converts to the Indian community and others. Therefore, the objective of this study is to explore the true story of four Indian preachers in the context of their experiences before embracing Islam and their involvement in preaching. The methodology of this study is qualitative and involves the collection of data in the field. The results of the study found that their strength as Indian Muslim preachers was influenced by three elements, (i) their life and experience before embracing Islam, (ii) their exposure in the diversity of knowledge and, (iii) the external support that makes them have their own approach and principles in delivering da'wah.

Research paper thumbnail of Islamic education in Malaysia: a critical analysis of its evolution and relevance

University of Punjab Pakistan, Jun 28, 2021

Assalam-o-Alikum wa Rehmat Allah wa Barakatuho. Your research article titled "ISLAMIC EDUCATION I... more Assalam-o-Alikum wa Rehmat Allah wa Barakatuho. Your research article titled "ISLAMIC EDUCATION IN MALAYSIA: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF ITS EVOLUTION AND RELEVANCE " was received for publication in our department's Research Journal "Al-Qalam". It is to inform you that your article has been accepted for publication in forthcoming issue of "Al-Qalam" Vol. 26 issue No: 1.

Research paper thumbnail of Al-Fāruqi’s and his principles of meta-religion: the Islamisation of comparative religion

Research paper thumbnail of Study of Religions

The International Journal of the Humanities: Annual Review, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of Dialog dan perpaduan (di Malaysia)

Research paper thumbnail of Hamka’s Daʿwah Reform:  Islamisation of Self, Education, and Institution

AL-ITQĀN JOURNAL OF ISLAMIC SCIENCES AND COMPARATIVE STUDIES, 2022

Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah or HAMKA (1908-1981) was a prominent Malay scholar and also an icon o... more Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah or HAMKA (1908-1981) was a prominent
Malay scholar and also an icon of daʿwah Islamiyyah. Although his name
and works are common to the Malays, his daʿwah orientation needs to be
explored further in view of the lethargic conditions of present daʿwah
movements in the Malay lands. Granted the title Pahlawan Nasional
Indonesia, Hamka‘s thought epitomised the idealism of daʿwah reform, and his activism symbolises the institutional configuration of daʿwah. Hamka went beyond the rhetoric slogan of Islam as a way of life when he brought tangible solutions to the problems that happen in society. The core inventory to that tangible solution, in his opinion, should start with oneself i.e. Islamisation of self, before any meaningful daʿwah can be administered to the community and institutions. This article attempts to promote Hamka‘s daʿwah reform; a synergised intellectualism and activism that are missing from the contemporary da‘wah orientations and led to its adversary effect on public understanding and practice of Islam.

Research paper thumbnail of Kebenaran Agama Dan Kehidupan Bersama DI Malaysia Perspektif Rahmatan Lil Alamin

MAIWP & KIRKHS, IIUM, 2019

Research paper thumbnail of The Crisis Of Intellectual Veracity In The Study Of Religions

The European Proceedings of Social and Behavioural Sciences

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-No... more This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 Unported License, permitting all non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Research paper thumbnail of Muhibah and Religious Pluralism Maintaining Religious Harmony in Malaysia

Research paper thumbnail of How Working from Home During McO Makes One a Better Person

IIUM Emotional and Psychological Support, May 1, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) and National Evangelical Christian Fellowship (NECF): their responses to contemporary issues

Malaysia is a multi-ethnic, multi-racial and multi-religious state. The Muslims constitute 61.3%,... more Malaysia is a multi-ethnic, multi-racial and multi-religious state. The Muslims constitute 61.3%, Christians 9.1%, Hindus 6.3%, Buddhist 19.2%, Sikhs 0.9% and others 2.6% of the population of Malaysia. This study examines the stated position and views of the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) and the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship (NECF) of Malaysia on religious freedom, the Islamization approach in Malaysia and the use of the word ‘Allah’ by Christians. This study argues that examination of the stated views and responses of non-Muslim citizens of Malaysia about issues of freedom of religion, Islamization approach and the use of the word ‘Allah’ by Malaysia’s non-Muslim citizens is important for the preservation and maintenance of religious and racial harmony and political stability in the country. The study used qualitative method of data collection. The study examined CFM and NECF online data official documents and newspapers and conducted in-depth interviews as main sources of data collection. The study found that the objectives of the CFM and NECF and the issues that led to their establishment and their focus/target group are different. Yet, both organizations are similarly concerned with the objectivity of their organization and want to honor the spirit of the Federal Constitution in their stated positions and responses toward issues that are related to Christian interests and rights to freedom of religion and the use of the word ‘Allah’. The study found that CFM and NECF have suggested interpretations of the Federal Constitution in such a manner that can preserve religious harmony, freedom of religion and respect for the rights of followers of other religions in Malaysia. The study also found that the CFM and NECF also suggest that one way to overcome religious differences and potential inter-religious conflict is to promote inter-religious dialogues among the followers of different religions in Malaysia. Finally, the study, among others, recommends that government agencies and religious institutions play a more pro-active role in making policies on propagating and engaging adherents of various religions in Malaysia

Research paper thumbnail of The rise of liberalism and religious pluralism in Malaysia : an analysis

Among the widely spread and controversial philosophies that are receiving global attention today ... more Among the widely spread and controversial philosophies that are receiving global attention today are the philosophy of liberalism and religious pluralism. Having its origin in the Western bedrock, both philosophies are products of modernity in the series of struggle against religion and tradition. Malaysia, without exception has long been exposed to both philosophies. Since the beginning of this century, there has been visible support for both philosophies from certain groups which has led to public and intellectual debates. This work, therefore, seeks to explore the narrative of liberalism and religious pluralism in Malaysia and to explain both the meaning and the relationship to objectively analyse their challenges to Muslim faith in Malaysia. Therefore, the challenges deliberated in this work spans from the question of human rights and freedom, which include the problem of apostasy and conversion among the Muslims, and the liberal values and norms propagated by LGBT groups in Malaysia. This work is theoretical and philosophical, and therefore, is qualitative in nature and depends much on textual research. The resources include printed and online materials. To analyse the data, the author has adopted critical and analytical methods. The findings show that acceptance of liberalism and religious pluralism by Muslims is the result of confusion and misinterpretation of texts on the origin, context and the challenges brought by these philosophies to religion in particular to Islam, being the religion of the nation. The work therefore commends that genuine understanding on both philosophies are crucial before any support or rejection can be made. In addition, much has been written on both philosophies but there is little research done on the relationship between them. This work, therefore, fills this gap

Research paper thumbnail of Cadangan dan penutup

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring religious pluralism: Christian and Muslim responses

In this paper we propose a new model to detect multiple objects of various intensities in images ... more In this paper we propose a new model to detect multiple objects of various intensities in images having maximum, minimum, or middle-intensity background by evolving only one level set function. In this model, a new signed pressure force function based on novel generalized averages is used for segmentation of images with maximum or minimum intensity background. For images with middle-intensity backgrounds, which are indeed challenging for 2-phase models, we propose a new product generalized signed pressure force function. Finally, to give experimental and qualitative evidence, our model is tested on both synthetic and real images with the Jaccard similarity index. The experimental and qualitative results reveal that the proposed method is efficient in both global and selective segmentation. Our new model is also tested on color images and the results are compared with the state-of-the-art models.

Research paper thumbnail of Rahmatan Lil ‘Alamin dalam konteks masyarakat kontemporari

Research paper thumbnail of Minoriti Muslim di China: peranan dan keterlibatan dalam pembinaan negara dan tamadun

Komuniti Muslim di China mempunyai sejarah yang panjang, iaitu seawal zaman Dinasti Tang pada 618... more Komuniti Muslim di China mempunyai sejarah yang panjang, iaitu seawal zaman Dinasti Tang pada 618 Tahun Masihi. Walaupun merupakan kelompok minoriti, mereka adalah warganegara yang mempunyai peranan tertentu dalam pembinaan negara dan tamadun. Sejarah mencatatkan bahawa komuniti Muslim di China turut berpartisipasi dalam isu-isu sosial, ekonomi dan politik negara. Mereka mempunyai identiti yang tersendiri, tetapi dalam masa yang sama bersikap terbuka terhadap budaya tempatan yang tidak bertentangan dengan ajaran agama. Persoalannya, sebagai kelompok minoriti, bagaimanakah komuniti Muslim boleh berperanan dan menyumbang kepada pembinaan negara dan tamadun dalam konteks hari ini? Ini wajar dibincangkan memandangkan sindrom Islamofobia yang melanda dunia global dan munculnya aliran ekstrimisme dalam kalangan sebahagian Muslim. Apakah perhatian yang perlu diberikan oleh komuniti Muslim di negara ini agar sindrom dan aliran tersebut tidak menyusup masuk dan menggugat kelansungan hidup me...

Research paper thumbnail of The principle of wasaṭiyyah (moderation) and the social concept of Islam: countering extremism in religion

This paper discusses the principle of moderation (an aspect of al-wasaṭiyyah) in the social conce... more This paper discusses the principle of moderation (an aspect of al-wasaṭiyyah) in the social concept of Islam, alongside Zhōngyōng (中庸), a similar concept that reflects the idea of moderation in Confucianism. The author emphasises on the concept of moderation in both traditions as a feasible platform to combat extremism in multi-religious and multi-racial societies. The author employs a qualitative methodology through which descriptive, comparative and textual analyses are applied on written materials related to the subject matter. Findings reveal that scholars of both traditions thoroughly deliberate the concepts in their discourses. Some of the shared universal values, such as justice, equilibrium, and forbearance can be found in both traditions and are useful in de-radicalizing potential and existing extremists.

Research paper thumbnail of A Comprehensive Examination of Exclusive Breastfeeding Through Quranic and Hadith Perspectives Alongside Scientific Insights

International journal of academic research in business & social sciences, Jun 25, 2024

This article delves into the importance and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in Islam, a... more This article delves into the importance and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in Islam, as supported by the Quran and Hadith, while also analyzing its advantages through religious and scientific perspectives. EBF entails feeding infants solely breast milk for the first six months. Research highlights the remarkable advantages of EBF in enhancing the health of both infants and mothers, from both religious and scientific viewpoints. The positive impact of EBF on infant growth is highlighted, emphasizing its crucial role in providing essential nutrients for brain and immune system development. Additionally, EBF provides immunization protection through antibodies in breast milk and fosters a strong emotional bond between mother and infant, potentially enhancing emotional intelligence. Beyond immediate benefits, EBF acts as a preventive measure against chronic diseases in adulthood. Recognized as a crucial strategy for optimal infant growth, EBF yields lasting positive effects on long-term health and well-being. The forthcoming research will adopt a qualitative approach through an extensive literature review to appraise the importance of breastfeeding in infant development and scrutinize scientific revelations on its advantages, conducting comprehensive literature reviews of Islamic and scientific sources to assess breastfeeding's significance and benefits. Data will be extracted from various written sources, including the Quran, Hadith, books, journals, reports, and newspapers. The study's results are vital for offering in-depth insights to the community, promoting awareness of breastfeeding benefits, and encouraging a commitment to adopting breastfeeding practices for the benefit of their offspring. Furthermore, this article proposes several further research avenues to deepen our

Research paper thumbnail of Hamka’s Daʿwah Reform: Islamisation of Self, Education and Institution

Al-Itqan, Dec 31, 2022

Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah or HAMKA (1908-1981) was a prominent Malay scholar and also an icon of... more Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah or HAMKA (1908-1981) was a prominent Malay scholar and also an icon of daʿwah Islamiyyah. Although his name and works are common to the Malays, his daʿwah orientation needs to be explored further in view of the lethargic conditions of present daʿwah movements in the Malay lands. Granted the title Pahlawan Nasional Indonesia, Hamka's thought epitomised the idealism of daʿwah reform, and his activism symbolises the institutional configuration of daʿwah. Hamka went beyond the rhetoric slogan of Islam as a way of life when he brought tangible solutions to the problems that happen in society. The core inventory to that tangible solution, in his opinion, should start with oneself i.e. Islamisation of self, before any meaningful daʿwah can be administered to the community and institutions. This article attempts to promote Hamka's daʿwah reform; a synergised intellectualism and activism that are missing from the contemporary da'wah orientations and led to its adversary effect on public understanding and practice of Islam.

Research paper thumbnail of European Proceedings of Social Behavioural Sciences

The trend of modern materialistic society modifies several different dimensions of an individual ... more The trend of modern materialistic society modifies several different dimensions of an individual life. The change is identified to be liable for the transformation of a selfless, warm and cordial individual to a cruel, soulless and self-centred man in modern society. The novel Saul Bellow's Seize the Day 1956 portrays the American capitalist society where material goods are considered more valuable than family member relationships; money is more important than love and the eternal goal is more precious than cordiality. In this society 'man is alone in a crowd. It is observed that Bellow's novel has a realistic reflection of American society when the country was uplifting to its zenith; development, prosperity, and property were the last pronounced words at the end of the day. This article examines the influence of materialism among the characters and discusses how the impact of materialism affects social bonding between siblings. Bellow's sense of changed human psychology, changed social relations and the representation of protagonists warns us that sooner or later the difference between a robot and human beings may not be distinguished. So, the novel may be analyzed through the lens of alienation, depression and discrimination in a heartless, selfcentred modern capitalist society.

Research paper thumbnail of Revert Daie: Lived Experiences of Indian Preachers in Malaysia

International Journal of Islamic Thought

Preachers are people who deliver Islamic message or speech to the communities around them. This i... more Preachers are people who deliver Islamic message or speech to the communities around them. This is because the agenda of preaching has been inherent in a Muslim and preaching is also one of the duties of the previous prophets. In Malaysia, the participation of non-Malay preachers such as Indian and Chinese preachers in delivering preaching is constantly growing from time to time. Furthermore, the involvement of Indian Muslims in the arena of preaching still receives less attention in academic studies, although it is undeniable that they also play a role in developing da'wah in Malaysia. It can be seen, most academic studies focus more on aspects of converts such as the welfare of converts, the management of converts to the Indian community and others. Therefore, the objective of this study is to explore the true story of four Indian preachers in the context of their experiences before embracing Islam and their involvement in preaching. The methodology of this study is qualitative and involves the collection of data in the field. The results of the study found that their strength as Indian Muslim preachers was influenced by three elements, (i) their life and experience before embracing Islam, (ii) their exposure in the diversity of knowledge and, (iii) the external support that makes them have their own approach and principles in delivering da'wah.

Research paper thumbnail of Islamic education in Malaysia: a critical analysis of its evolution and relevance

University of Punjab Pakistan, Jun 28, 2021

Assalam-o-Alikum wa Rehmat Allah wa Barakatuho. Your research article titled "ISLAMIC EDUCATION I... more Assalam-o-Alikum wa Rehmat Allah wa Barakatuho. Your research article titled "ISLAMIC EDUCATION IN MALAYSIA: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF ITS EVOLUTION AND RELEVANCE " was received for publication in our department's Research Journal "Al-Qalam". It is to inform you that your article has been accepted for publication in forthcoming issue of "Al-Qalam" Vol. 26 issue No: 1.

Research paper thumbnail of Al-Fāruqi’s and his principles of meta-religion: the Islamisation of comparative religion

Research paper thumbnail of Study of Religions

The International Journal of the Humanities: Annual Review, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of Dialog dan perpaduan (di Malaysia)

Research paper thumbnail of Hamka’s Daʿwah Reform:  Islamisation of Self, Education, and Institution

AL-ITQĀN JOURNAL OF ISLAMIC SCIENCES AND COMPARATIVE STUDIES, 2022

Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah or HAMKA (1908-1981) was a prominent Malay scholar and also an icon o... more Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah or HAMKA (1908-1981) was a prominent
Malay scholar and also an icon of daʿwah Islamiyyah. Although his name
and works are common to the Malays, his daʿwah orientation needs to be
explored further in view of the lethargic conditions of present daʿwah
movements in the Malay lands. Granted the title Pahlawan Nasional
Indonesia, Hamka‘s thought epitomised the idealism of daʿwah reform, and his activism symbolises the institutional configuration of daʿwah. Hamka went beyond the rhetoric slogan of Islam as a way of life when he brought tangible solutions to the problems that happen in society. The core inventory to that tangible solution, in his opinion, should start with oneself i.e. Islamisation of self, before any meaningful daʿwah can be administered to the community and institutions. This article attempts to promote Hamka‘s daʿwah reform; a synergised intellectualism and activism that are missing from the contemporary da‘wah orientations and led to its adversary effect on public understanding and practice of Islam.

Research paper thumbnail of Kebenaran Agama Dan Kehidupan Bersama DI Malaysia Perspektif Rahmatan Lil Alamin

MAIWP & KIRKHS, IIUM, 2019

Research paper thumbnail of The Crisis Of Intellectual Veracity In The Study Of Religions

The European Proceedings of Social and Behavioural Sciences

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-No... more This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 Unported License, permitting all non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Research paper thumbnail of Muhibah and Religious Pluralism Maintaining Religious Harmony in Malaysia

Research paper thumbnail of How Working from Home During McO Makes One a Better Person

IIUM Emotional and Psychological Support, May 1, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) and National Evangelical Christian Fellowship (NECF): their responses to contemporary issues

Malaysia is a multi-ethnic, multi-racial and multi-religious state. The Muslims constitute 61.3%,... more Malaysia is a multi-ethnic, multi-racial and multi-religious state. The Muslims constitute 61.3%, Christians 9.1%, Hindus 6.3%, Buddhist 19.2%, Sikhs 0.9% and others 2.6% of the population of Malaysia. This study examines the stated position and views of the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) and the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship (NECF) of Malaysia on religious freedom, the Islamization approach in Malaysia and the use of the word ‘Allah’ by Christians. This study argues that examination of the stated views and responses of non-Muslim citizens of Malaysia about issues of freedom of religion, Islamization approach and the use of the word ‘Allah’ by Malaysia’s non-Muslim citizens is important for the preservation and maintenance of religious and racial harmony and political stability in the country. The study used qualitative method of data collection. The study examined CFM and NECF online data official documents and newspapers and conducted in-depth interviews as main sources of data collection. The study found that the objectives of the CFM and NECF and the issues that led to their establishment and their focus/target group are different. Yet, both organizations are similarly concerned with the objectivity of their organization and want to honor the spirit of the Federal Constitution in their stated positions and responses toward issues that are related to Christian interests and rights to freedom of religion and the use of the word ‘Allah’. The study found that CFM and NECF have suggested interpretations of the Federal Constitution in such a manner that can preserve religious harmony, freedom of religion and respect for the rights of followers of other religions in Malaysia. The study also found that the CFM and NECF also suggest that one way to overcome religious differences and potential inter-religious conflict is to promote inter-religious dialogues among the followers of different religions in Malaysia. Finally, the study, among others, recommends that government agencies and religious institutions play a more pro-active role in making policies on propagating and engaging adherents of various religions in Malaysia

Research paper thumbnail of The rise of liberalism and religious pluralism in Malaysia : an analysis

Among the widely spread and controversial philosophies that are receiving global attention today ... more Among the widely spread and controversial philosophies that are receiving global attention today are the philosophy of liberalism and religious pluralism. Having its origin in the Western bedrock, both philosophies are products of modernity in the series of struggle against religion and tradition. Malaysia, without exception has long been exposed to both philosophies. Since the beginning of this century, there has been visible support for both philosophies from certain groups which has led to public and intellectual debates. This work, therefore, seeks to explore the narrative of liberalism and religious pluralism in Malaysia and to explain both the meaning and the relationship to objectively analyse their challenges to Muslim faith in Malaysia. Therefore, the challenges deliberated in this work spans from the question of human rights and freedom, which include the problem of apostasy and conversion among the Muslims, and the liberal values and norms propagated by LGBT groups in Malaysia. This work is theoretical and philosophical, and therefore, is qualitative in nature and depends much on textual research. The resources include printed and online materials. To analyse the data, the author has adopted critical and analytical methods. The findings show that acceptance of liberalism and religious pluralism by Muslims is the result of confusion and misinterpretation of texts on the origin, context and the challenges brought by these philosophies to religion in particular to Islam, being the religion of the nation. The work therefore commends that genuine understanding on both philosophies are crucial before any support or rejection can be made. In addition, much has been written on both philosophies but there is little research done on the relationship between them. This work, therefore, fills this gap

Research paper thumbnail of Cadangan dan penutup

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring religious pluralism: Christian and Muslim responses

In this paper we propose a new model to detect multiple objects of various intensities in images ... more In this paper we propose a new model to detect multiple objects of various intensities in images having maximum, minimum, or middle-intensity background by evolving only one level set function. In this model, a new signed pressure force function based on novel generalized averages is used for segmentation of images with maximum or minimum intensity background. For images with middle-intensity backgrounds, which are indeed challenging for 2-phase models, we propose a new product generalized signed pressure force function. Finally, to give experimental and qualitative evidence, our model is tested on both synthetic and real images with the Jaccard similarity index. The experimental and qualitative results reveal that the proposed method is efficient in both global and selective segmentation. Our new model is also tested on color images and the results are compared with the state-of-the-art models.

Research paper thumbnail of Rahmatan Lil ‘Alamin dalam konteks masyarakat kontemporari

Research paper thumbnail of Minoriti Muslim di China: peranan dan keterlibatan dalam pembinaan negara dan tamadun

Komuniti Muslim di China mempunyai sejarah yang panjang, iaitu seawal zaman Dinasti Tang pada 618... more Komuniti Muslim di China mempunyai sejarah yang panjang, iaitu seawal zaman Dinasti Tang pada 618 Tahun Masihi. Walaupun merupakan kelompok minoriti, mereka adalah warganegara yang mempunyai peranan tertentu dalam pembinaan negara dan tamadun. Sejarah mencatatkan bahawa komuniti Muslim di China turut berpartisipasi dalam isu-isu sosial, ekonomi dan politik negara. Mereka mempunyai identiti yang tersendiri, tetapi dalam masa yang sama bersikap terbuka terhadap budaya tempatan yang tidak bertentangan dengan ajaran agama. Persoalannya, sebagai kelompok minoriti, bagaimanakah komuniti Muslim boleh berperanan dan menyumbang kepada pembinaan negara dan tamadun dalam konteks hari ini? Ini wajar dibincangkan memandangkan sindrom Islamofobia yang melanda dunia global dan munculnya aliran ekstrimisme dalam kalangan sebahagian Muslim. Apakah perhatian yang perlu diberikan oleh komuniti Muslim di negara ini agar sindrom dan aliran tersebut tidak menyusup masuk dan menggugat kelansungan hidup me...

Research paper thumbnail of The principle of wasaṭiyyah (moderation) and the social concept of Islam: countering extremism in religion

This paper discusses the principle of moderation (an aspect of al-wasaṭiyyah) in the social conce... more This paper discusses the principle of moderation (an aspect of al-wasaṭiyyah) in the social concept of Islam, alongside Zhōngyōng (中庸), a similar concept that reflects the idea of moderation in Confucianism. The author emphasises on the concept of moderation in both traditions as a feasible platform to combat extremism in multi-religious and multi-racial societies. The author employs a qualitative methodology through which descriptive, comparative and textual analyses are applied on written materials related to the subject matter. Findings reveal that scholars of both traditions thoroughly deliberate the concepts in their discourses. Some of the shared universal values, such as justice, equilibrium, and forbearance can be found in both traditions and are useful in de-radicalizing potential and existing extremists.

Research paper thumbnail of THE STUDY OF OTHER RELIGIONS BEYOND THE POLEMICAL APPROACH

The paper analyzes the approach adopted by Irfan A. H. Fattah in the study of other religions. Hi... more The paper analyzes the approach adopted by Irfan A. H. Fattah in the study of other religions. His approach is unique as he managed to combine between the traditional approach and the modern approach in the study of religions. The study of religions in the classical Muslim traditions was attempted by Muslim theologians who prone into polemical approach. They have been widely criticized by modern scholars of religious studies. The theologians polemical approach has been blamed as bias and prejudice for they provide refutations to religions other than Islam. Modern study of religions rejected the traditional approach and challenged for neutrality via scientific approaches. Irfan A.H. Fattah tried to reconcile between the traditional and the modern approaches thus enlightened his path towards objectivity. Based on textual analysis method, the paper seeks to explore the objectivity as transpired in the works he authored. The paper therefore hopes to demonstrate the meaning, the examples and the viability of an objective approach in the study of other religions by a Muslim scholar.

Research paper thumbnail of Developing Profile of Religions in Malaysia

Malaysians need more than historical explanation to substantiate the reasons for their coexistenc... more Malaysians need more than historical explanation to substantiate the reasons for their coexistence and understanding of each other. This paper is to share part of our research endeavor in gathering and managing data on religions in Malaysia through an academic research. Using a combination of approaches; we try to go beyond the phenomenological approach in developing a profile of religions in Malaysia. We have identified two major categories as the criteria for the profile; the permanent and the dynamic. The permanent pertains to; God as the Creator, the universe and creation, the relationship between the creator and the creation, the concept of good and evil and the destiny of the universe. The dynamic pertains to the philosophy, concept, notion, and methods and approaches for understanding the permanent. This paper therefore advocates the profile as potential standard for embarking into inter-faith discourses among religions in Malaysia.

Research paper thumbnail of Towards Good Governance of Pluralistic Society in Malaysia

The existence of various races, ethnic groups, and religions in Malaysia, maps the pluralistic co... more The existence of various races, ethnic groups, and religions in Malaysia, maps the pluralistic condition of her society. Such co-existences however have exposed Malaysians to potential conflicts. In reality, conflicts did occur due to lack of understanding on each other's religion. To reduce the conflicts, Interreligious dialogue (IRD) has been propagated as an alternative in bridging religions in Malaysia. The issues at hands are; being a Muslim-majority state, what are needed by the Malaysian government to ensure the success of dialogue? Are Malaysians ready for such engagement? What are the prospects and challenges for a successful IRD in the Malaysian context? This paper therefore, aims to present a research findings pertaining to IRD. The findings are deemed necessary for mobilizing a good governance of pluralistic society in Malaysia.

Research paper thumbnail of A Muslim Guide to Understand the Sacred Text of Religions : A Comparative Approach

The work deals with sacred texts of world religions from a Muslim point of view. It provides alte... more The work deals with sacred texts of world religions from a Muslim point of view. It provides alternative approaches for Muslim students and researchers in comparative religion to understand religions from their sacred texts. The work elucidates the meaning of sacred texts,
the available approaches, issues concerning canonization and authenticity, types, problems and dilemma of approaches and a proposal of an Islamic approach. The core of the work deals with
sacred texts of religion exploring their structures, history of canonization and functions. Extracts from the sacred texts are also identified as concrete examples intended for comparative learning approaches.

Research paper thumbnail of abstract UTAR CONFERENCE.pdf

This paper discusses the feasibility of the moderation principle in the social concept of Islam. ... more This paper discusses the feasibility of the moderation principle in the social concept of Islam. Wasatiyyah, translated as moderation promotes the idea of balance in life that denounces any form of extremism either deficiency or excessiveness. In terms of human society, wasatiyyah set the ideals depicted in the Qur'an as ummatan wasatan (a just/moderate/balance ummah) that is supposed to bring about social order in the society. Considering the contemporary dogma of extremism that fed the terrorist ideologies and actions under the name of Islam, more efforts are needed to advocate the understanding of wasatiyyah as well as the practices be it at the level of individual Muslim or its society. This is needed to discharge the dogma and its fallacies from tainting the purity of Islam and its teaching. In terms of values and morality, this principle guides individual Muslim to care for the most delicate part of his being which is his soul. Ibnu Miskawayh and al-Ghazali stressed that a balance soul is the origin of positive virtues and vice versa. The other reason why the principle of moderation deserves a highlight in this paper is because it is also prevalent in other cultures and religions. In the context of this conference, there is a concept of (Zhōngyōng 中庸) in Confucianism that reflects the idea of moderation. As a matter of fact, it is the highest ideals in Confucianism that is transpired in the Confucian teachings. Given the shared ideas of moderation, and the delusion of extremism, it is timely that there should be a global campaign for moderation as a universal principle along with its distinct form prevailing in different cultures and religions. It is hoped that the global campaign will rectify and repair human trust towards Islam in particular and religions in general.

Research paper thumbnail of International Seminar Intercultural Discourse and Engagement as Part of Jurisprudence of Minorities (Fiqh al-Aqalliyyat): The Case of Muslims in China

Jurisprudence of minorities (fiqh al-aqalliyyat) is a specific framework in Islamic Jurisprudence... more Jurisprudence of minorities (fiqh al-aqalliyyat) is a specific framework in Islamic Jurisprudence that provides guidance for Muslims living in a majority non-Muslim contexts leading a life according to Islam and resuming into a positive coexistence and integration with other religions and cultures. It is relatively a new branch of Islamic Jurisprudence developed by Yusuf al-Qaradawi and Taha Jabir al-Alwani during the late 90s. This paper seeks to deliberate on the importance of interreligious and intercultural relation being part of the fiqh al-aqalliyyat for Muslims living in a country with majority non-Muslims. Instead of delineating the juridical ramifications concerning the dos and don'ts, the author deliberates the manner in which fiqh al-aqalliyat substantiates the Muslims' (in China) ethos in a way that is constructive to their faith and community, and at the same time nurturing their sense of allegiance to the country. To illustrate this, it is fundamental that the five autonomous regions populated by Muslims to be aware that to become a good Muslim is as essential as to be a good citizen. In this regard, the Muslims in China should also be warned from being inclined to any tendencies of extremism, exclusivism and isolationism from the government of the day such as the Boko Haram in Nigeria and Jama'at Abu Sayyaf in Philippines. Considering the huge and diverse population, the state policy against religious ideologies, and the stringent measures against certain quarters of the Muslim population, the Muslims in China need to nurture and demonstrate a sense of flexibility and openness. As such, it is useful to bring some of the successful stories of Muslim minorities who integrate well with the majority and the state such as the Singaporean Muslims. The paper ends with recommendations on the strategies in realizing intercultural discourse and engagement for the survival of Islam and Muslims in China. Keyword: Jurisprudence of minorities, Muslims in China, religious coexistence , intercultural discourse and engagement.

Research paper thumbnail of WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM MARYAM (PBUH)/THE VIRGIN MARY: THE QUR'ANIC & THE BIBLICAL ICON OF A PEACEKEEPING PERSONALITY  (part of the draft)

The trial faced by Maryam (PBUH)/ The Virgin Mary as narrated in the Qur'an and in the Bible can ... more The trial faced by Maryam (PBUH)/ The Virgin Mary as narrated in the Qur'an and in the Bible can be regarded as one of the most challenging trials (fitnah) one had encountered in human history. The two sacred texts reported the accusations, humiliation and misery she was made to face and her struggle to remain patience and steadfast in faith. She has indeed epitomized the personality of a peacekeeper (as commanded to her by God), a trait equally projected in the Qur'an and in the Bible against her detractors from among the religious believers and non-believers. This paper therefore seeks to advocate the lessons learnt from the story of Maryam (PBUH)/The Virgin Mary in order to highlight the role of religion in developing a peacekeeping personality of an important woman who is an icon to the Muslims and the Christians. Using the Qur'anic and Biblical exegetical works, this paper adopts the textual and comparative analysis methods to demonstrate a form of intellectual honesty in religious studies to promote the role of woman in peacebuilding initiative.