The Concept of Fatwa in Malaysia and its Constitutionality

Fatwa and its Islamic Institutions play an enormous role in the country. It enhances the administration while smoothening the implementation of Islamic law. Once a fatwa is published in the Gazette, it becomes a binding and enforceable law among Muslims and the Syariah Courts. Due to this reason, some might assume that Fatwa could be another form of legislation. This could be a problem because the Constitution only recognizes the Legislature to enact law. Thus, the question here is whether Fatwa and its concept is ultra vires to the Constitution?

In Malaysia, the powers to enact law are vested in the Parliament and state Assemblies.

Article 73 of the Federal Constitution provides:

 In exercising the legislative powers conferred on it by this Constitution—

(a)   Parliament may make laws for the whole or any part of the Federation and laws having effect outside as well as within the Federation;

(b)   the Legislature of a State may make laws for the whole or any part of that State.

According to this provision, it is clear why some might assume that the Parliament and state Assemblies are the only institutions responsible for law enacting in the country.

Article 74 of the Federal Constitution further provides:

(2)      Without prejudice to any power to make laws conferred on it by any other Article, the Legislature of a State may make laws with respect to any of the matters enumerated in the State List (that is to say, the Second List set out in the Ninth Schedule) or the Concurrent List.

This provision recognizes the autonomy of the State’s Legislature to enact laws that is included in the State List.

Item 1 of List II – State List provides :

1.      Except with respect to the Federal Territories (...) , Islamic law and personal and family law of persons professing the religion of Islam, (...) the determination of matters of Islamic law and doctrine and Malay custom.

The State List includes the matters of Islamic Law to be a part of the State’s jurisdiction. By extension, a fatwa can be overseen by the state government in Malaysia and it is strictly a state affair. The State regulates the manners and conducts of Islamic affairs in their respective states via “The Administration of Islamic Law enactments”. These enactments are a shared property among all State in the governance of Islamic Law.

Fatwa is legislated in two ways:

1)      MKI Fatwa Committee Meeting

This fatwa legislating process starts with the Majlis Raja-Raja (Conference of Rulers) ordering the MKI Fatwa Committee to produce a ruling or fatwa about an issue that was raised by the people. That particular issue shall be reviewed and investigated. A report shall be produced and presented during the MKI Fatwa Committee Meeting. When the Meeting has produced a fatwa, that fatwa shall be ascended to the Conference of Rulers through the National Council of Islamic Affairs (Majlis Kebangsaan Hal Ehwal Islam / MKI). After the fatwa receives the royal assent from the Conference of Rulers, it shall be taken to the State Fatwa Committee. The fatwa will then be gazetted as that State’s fatwa without any amendments.

2)      MKI Fatwa Committee Muzakarah

This fatwa legislating process starts with an application by the Muslim community or certain entities to address an issue. That particular issue shall be reviewed and investigated. A report shall be produced and presented during the MKI Fatwa Committee Muzakarah. When the Muzakarah[1]  has produced a fatwa, that fatwa shall be taken to the State Fatwa Committee. A State may decide to whether amend that fatwa or accept it without amendments and then gazette it as that State’s fatwa.

This fatwa will also be ascended to the Conference of Rulers through the National Council of Islamic Affairs. Experts will be called upon in order to provide their views and opinions pertaining to any ambiguous issues or provide a thorough briefing in order to ensure that the Fatwa Committee Members obtain accurate information before legislating a fatwa.

It is now clear that fatwa is a binding legislation which entails the force of law. The process of legislating fatwa in Malaysia is institutionalized in such a way that any verdict issued and published in the Gazette shall become binding on all Muslims and the Syariah courts. It is also considered that fatwa is simply another form of Delegated Legislation. Thus, it can be concluded that fatwa and its legislating process in Malaysia is constitutional.

Fatwa does not usurp the legislature of their constitutional powers as was perceived by some people. In addition, fatwa and its institutions never did prevented the legislature in carrying out their constitutional duties, since all the laws, including those regulating fatwa), in the country are product of the Parliament and state Assembly.

In conclusion, fatwa and its institutions do not stand as challenges to the legislature and legislating process of the country. It is here, where we appeal that people should try to understand that the legitimacy of fatwa is enabled by the legislative enactments of various states and federal Territories in the country by which each is validly guaranteed by the Consitution. It is now clear that there is no gain in challenging the legal status of fatwa in Malaysia.

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[1] Muzakarah means the discussion or debate among Muslim scholars or leaders.

Personal Statement

It was on July 9^th 2011 that the Bersih (Clean) rally took action. Organized by the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections, the Walk for Democracy pushed the Electoral Commission of Malaysia to ensure free and fair elections in Malaysia. The Commission was demanded to clean up the electoral roll, reform postal voting, use indelible ink, introduce a minimum 21-day campaign period, allow all parties free access to the media, and put an end to electoral fraud. Such event drew the attention of the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong as the Head of the state to address his people. Despite the royal intervention by His Highness, the government remained adamant in their stance to illegalize the street rally. This occurrence made me wonder about the true condition of the protest – Whether it was legal or illegal? On one hand the rally called for a reformation in the country’s corrupted system. However, the rally also caused chaos and anarchy which are destroying peace and order in the nation. These questions intrigued me to learn more about the law and its catalytic effect on human society. Since then, my interest in law was fostered and it promoted me to ask even more questions regarding religious freedom and moral codes.

I am very interested in reading law. The law is very crucial since it forms the foundation on which any civilized society is based. Law is multi disciplinary and is very fascinating. This is because it not only involves the technical understanding of the constitution, but also psychology, science, English, Latin, philosophy, forensics and so many other subjects to mention. This enhances the study of law as a complete subject in all respects. It is astounding how the law permeates every aspect of our lives. One law professor even said that it is the universal solvent, so to speak. It mixes with every other discipline in some way, and everything else mixes with it in another.

My participation in debating confirmed me of my interest in reading law. I was enthusiastic for practice and I tried to make myself eligible for tournaments as frequently as possible. Even at the point where my team faces inevitable defeat, my motivation never faded. This is because my true intention is not victory, but to obtain experience and knowledge of the soft skills that a strong debater needs. Skills like critical analysis and finding creative approaches to an issue is not just a valued capability to a debater, but also an important aptitude for a capable barrister. My spirit did not leave me in vain. My team managed to break into the finals of the Inter-MJSC Debating Championship for 2010 and 2011. My determination also allowed me to achieve the award of 5^th best speaker of the Inter-MJSC Debating Championship and 3^rd best speaker of the IIUM Interschool Debating Championship. I was also listed for training as one of the potential debaters to represent Malaysia in the World School Debating Championship 2012.

Moreover, I am a holder of a second degree black belt in Taekwon-Do. It means that I hold the responsibility of a Boosabum or an assistant instructor. My experience leading a class taught me that being discipline is crucial since I need to set an example. Being strong-willed helped me to become a gold-medalist in the sport of sparring. Despite it all, my Sabum or instructor brought great emphasis on the five tenets of Taekwon-Do. These tenets are: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self Control, and Indomitable Spirit. Nevertheless, I picture my future as the last two phrases of the student’s oath: "I shall be a champion of freedom and justice" and "I shall build a more peaceful world." I believe that studying law and becoming a barrister may help me to realize this dream and contribute in a better future.

I would like to pursue studying law at a university in the UK because the Law program there provides a comprehensive and critical understanding of core legal principles. It includes not only torts law, contracts law and criminal law, but also European law and human rights law. Studying abroad would also provide me the chance to broaden my perspective and see the world from a different angle. This experience would encourage me to analyze the law within its broader economic, political, cultural, and international settings. If God willing that I am accepted into your law program, I would partake in a three year undergraduate degree program which results in an LLB. I further plan to apply to join one of the four Inns of Court and then complete the one-year Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), followed by a pupilage in a set of barristers' chambers to become a full pledge barrister. I am determined to study law at your university.

Explain why is it crucial to learn social studies in the university

   Universities play an important role in the development of human society. Institutions that bear the prestige of an alma mater are responsible in promoting the evolution of knowledge. Places like Al-Azhar and Oxford are examples of many historical universities that had contributed to the upbringing of many scholars. Subjects like history and sociology are important in the advancement of human development. In addition, it is crucial to learn social studies in the university in order to produce graduates who understand humanity better, to help students develop essential thinking skills and to act as inspiration for students. 

   Learning social studies is crucial in producing graduates who understand humanity better. Social studies classes often focus on learning about people in other countries. This is meant to expand students' worlds in order to encompass a national and international community. Social studies also focus on differences and similarities between people, helping students learn to get along within their immediate community. Because social studies focus on human interactions, they teach students how to act compassionately within society. Perhaps the most important lessons social studies teach are understanding and tolerance for people across the world. 

   Furthermore, students can develop essential thinking skills by learning social studies. Its assignments promote reading at the evaluation, synthesis, analysis and interpretation levels. It also stimulates critical thinking skills through writing and analytical thinking. It is in social studies that students learn skills ranging from reading a map to making an argument. Students learn how to assess the validity of evidence, evaluate conflicting points of view and apply facts to making decisions. These are the capabilities which are exclusive to individuals with essential thinking skills. 

   Moreover, social studies education has the power of inspiration. It is in social studies classrooms that students learn that an individual with great convictions or a committed group can change the world. It is also in the mentioned classroom that students learn the words and deeds of people, such as Muhammad and Martin Luther King, Jr. Students take inspiration from them through the historical changes that they have commenced. Facts will prove that might and intelligence are not exclusive to any particular race, but are assets of mankind. 

   In conclusion, the mentioned reasons prove that it is crucial for students to learn social studies in the university. However, what are the methods in order to strengthen the social studies curriculum? Initiatives like international exchange programs and out-of-class sessions may indeed be effective. Definitely, it is up to us to take the benefits from such education.

Apa yang dibuat ketika keluar dijalan Allah?

Mereka menghidupkan amalan Nabi secara menyeluruh yakni Dakwah, Taklim wa Ta’allum, dan Tazkiyyah. Hal ini bersesuaian dengan ayat :

"Ya Tuhan kami, utuslah seorang Rasul ditengah-tengah mereka yang berasal dari diri mereka sendiri (yang tugasnya) membacakan ayat-ayat Engkau (DAKWAH), mengajarkan kepada mereka AL-KITAB dan AL-HIKMAH (Taklim wa Ta’allum) dan Tazkiyyah (Dzikir Ibadah dan Khidmat), Sesungguhnya Engkau Maha Gagah dan Maha Bijaksana" 

(Al-Baqarah : 129)

Doa di atas adalah doa Nabi Ibrahim ketika selesai membangun Ka’bah sehingga mereka katakan : Inilah amalan masjid yang diinginkan Ibrahim as.

Mereka membagi waktu khuruj dengan tertib sebagai berikut :

4 Jam untuk Dakwah, yang terdiri dari :

1. Jaulah Umumi 

-yakni jumpa seluruh orang kampung

2. Jaulah Khususi 

-yakni jumpa orang perorang sebagaimana kedudukan orang yang didatangi, misalnya : ulama atau umara.

3. Jaulah Taklimi

-yakni mereka berkeliling untuk ajak orang kampung duduk di majlis taklim fadhilah amal yang mereka buat.

4. Jaulah Tasykili

-yakni mereka datang ke tempat orang yang ada simpati setelah mendengar bayan-bayan (penjelasan) mereka.

5. Jaulah Ushuli, yakni mereka datang kepada orang yang niat keluar bersamaan dengan kepindahan mereka ke kampung lain.

4 Jam mereka gunakan untuk Taklim, yang terdiri dari :

1. Taklim Kitabi

2. Taklim Halaqah Al Quran

3. Taklim Enam Sifat

4. Mudzakarah Adab-Adab Sunah Sehari-hari

5. Taklim Infiradi, yakni membaca buku yang mereka bawa di luar amalan ijtima’i

4 Jam mereka gunakan untuk Dzikir Ibadah, yang terdiri dari :

1. Solat berjamaah

2. Solat-solat sunnah

3. Dzikir Pagi-Petang

4. Solat Tahajud dan Doa Hidayah dimalam hari

5. Tilawah Al Quran

6. Doa-doa masnunah

4 Jam mereka gunakan untuk Khidmat, yang terdiri dari :

1. Khidmat kepada Amir

2. Khidmat kepada Jemaah

3. Khidmat kepada orang kampung

4. Khidmat kepada diri sendiri

Semuanya menyita waktu selama 16 Jam. Sedangkan sisanya digunakan 6 jam untuk tidur dan 2 jam untuk keperluan peribadi yang lain.

Apabila mereka keluar mengikut tertib dengan meyertai amalan ijtima’i secara lengkap, maka dengan izin Allah mereka mendapat Islah setelah pulang. Semoga boleh menjaga solat berjamaah serta muamalah dan mu'asyarahnya dengan lebih baik.

Kegagalan orang keluar di jalan Allah adalah disebabkan mereka tidak mengikut tertib sehingga tak ada Islah dan setelah itu dia menjadi sulit untuk diperbaiki dan menjadi HIJAB bagi manusia lain untuk mendapat hidayah.

3 Perkara yang menyebabkan seorang sukses keluar di jalan Allah :

1. Keluar dengan mentaati Amir

2. Keluar dengan tertib di dalam Ijtimaiyyat

3. Keluar semata karena Allah SWT

Apabila orang keluar dengan 3 hal tersebut maka Allah akan beri kepada mereka 2 perkara :

1. Dicabut sifat binatang dari diri mereka

2. Doa mereka akan dikabulkan sebagaimana doa Nabi-Nabi.

Telah banyak bukti perubahan yang terjadi pada orang yang keluar di jalan Allah. Mereka yang sebelumnya sampah masyarakat dan jauh dari agama, kini mereka menjadi Da'ie. Bukan hanya untuk mengislahkan diri mereka supaya berubah menjadi baik, malah mereka juga fikir bagaimana untuk orang lain boleh menjadi baik. Maka lihatlah oleh kalian, perubahan hidup mereka dari maksiat kepada taat.

A passage from my soon-to-be book: "It Was Just Not Meant To Be"

A passage from my soon-to-be book: "It Was Just Not Meant To Be"

"...

His heart whispered hoping she hears it, 'It is better to have loved and lost, than to have never loved at all. Thank you for teaching me how to feel, love AND pain. I will never forget you. You were my best friend. And you were, and still is, the one. But, I learned that you can’t know those types of things. You can only trust what you feel in your heart and take a blind leap of faith. That’s what life's about. You know, we’re not put on this earth to live perfect lives, where we never get hurt or we never make mistakes. We’re put here to hurl ourselves headfirst into this crazy world, and the bruises and scrapes we get along the way; they just mean you're living life.

..."

"...

Her heart tries to whisper back, 'Sometimes we want something so bad, we practically write the script on how it should go, even though we know better. There’s no such thing as the perfect relationship; there are always lumps. But why do the lumps have to be bad? Maybe instead of trying so hard to create the ideal, we should embrace the not so perfect. Because sometimes it’s the imperfections that make the memories you really cherish. Maybe life is like a cross country road trip. You can get so focused on the enormity of the mission ahead, staring straight out of the expansive road as you fail to notice the stuff you're passing by right at that moment. It is not that I am trying to break your heart. But, I just don't want to ruin your iman.

..."

Please, tell me how you think...

Imam Hassan Al-Banna dan cita-citanya

Di dalam peperiksaan di Darul Ulum, Imam Hasan Al-Banna pernah diminta menulis sebuah karangan bertajuk, ‘Apa yang akan anda buat selepas menamatkan pengajian dan apakah cara yang anda gunakan?’ Imam Hasan Al-Banna menulis seperti berikut:

‘Saya ingin menjadi seorang guru dan pendakwah. Saya akan mendidik para pemuda pada waktu siang, malam dan waktu cuti. Saya akan mengajak keluarga mereka mengamalkan cara hidup Islam dan menunjukkan kepada mereka jalan untuk mendapatkan kegembiraan dan kebahagiaan hidup yang sebenar. Saya akan menggunakan cara-cara yang paling baik yang termampu oleh saya untuk mencapai tujuan ini melalui syarahan, penulisan dan pengembaraan di jalan raya dan lorong-lorong.’

Distinguished and explain the maxim Caveat emptor.

Caveat emptor is Latin for "Let the buyer beware." Generally, caveat emptor is the property law doctrine that controls the sale of real property after the date of closing. It is a principle in commerce where without a warranty the buyer takes the risk. It acts as a warning that notifies a buyer that the goods he or she is buying are "as is," or subject to all defects. When a sale is subject to this warning the purchaser assumes the risk that the product might be either defective or unsuitable to his or her needs. In other words, consumers need to know their rights and be vigilant in avoiding scams. For example in the private purchase of a used car, caveat emptor places an onus on the buyer to make sure the car is worth the purchase price. This is because once the transaction is complete the buyer will not receive a warranty or return option from the seller. Under the doctrine of caveat emptor, the buyer could not recover from the seller for defects on the property that rendered the property unfit for ordinary purposes. The only exception was if the seller actively concealed latent defects or otherwise made material misrepresentations amounting to fraud.

The modern trend in laws protecting consumers, however, has minimized the importance of this rule. Although the buyer is still required to make a reasonable inspection of goods upon purchase, increased responsibilities have been placed upon the seller, and the doctrine of caveat venditor (Latin for "let the seller beware") has become more prevalent. Generally, there is a legal presumption that a seller makes certain warranties unless the buyer and the seller agree otherwise. One such warranty is the Implied Warranty of merchantability. If a person buys soap, for example, there is an implied warranty that it will clean; if a person buys skis, there is an implied warranty that they will be safe to use on the slopes. A seller who is in the business of regularly selling a particular type of goods has still greater responsibilities in dealing with an average customer. A person purchasing antiques from an antique dealer, or jewellery from a jeweller, is justified in his or her reliance on the expertise of the seller. If both the buyer and the seller are negotiating from equal bargaining positions, however, the doctrine of caveat emptor would apply.

Before statutory law, the buyer had no warranty ensuring the quality of goods. In many jurisdictions the law requires that goods must be of "merchantable quality". However, this implied warranty can be difficult to enforce and may not apply to all products. Hence, buyers are still advised to be cautious. In the UK, consumer law has moved away from the caveat emptor model, with laws passed that have enhanced consumer rights and allow greater leeway to return goods that do not meet legal standards of acceptance. Consumer purchases are regulated by the Sale of Goods Act 1979. In the UK, consumers have the right to a full refund for faulty goods, however by convention, most retail companies will allow customers to return goods within a specified period (typically a month or two) for a full refund or an exchange, even if there is no fault with the product. Exceptions may apply for goods sold as damaged or to clear. Goods bought via 'distance selling', for example online or via phone, also have a statutory 'cooling off' period of seven working days. To cancel the contract is to treat the contract as if it had not been made, except that the Regulations refer to the terms. Although no longer applied in consumer law, the principle of caveat emptor is generally held to apply to transactions between businesses unless it can be shown that the seller had a clear information advantage over the buyer that could not have been removed by carrying out reasonable due diligence.

In the case of Karuppanan Chellappan v Chong, the plaintiff in this action, now says that he had no knowledge of the condition laid down by the Lembaga Bandaran Cameron Highlands (LBCH) on the removal of the window protrusions at Hotel Sentosa, a four storey building which stood on Lot 26, Brinchang, Cameron Highlands. He alleged that the defendant had misled him by fraudulent misrepresentation in not divulging on this condition and had expressed that fraudulent misrepresentation in the sale and purchase agreement (SPA) by stating that it was free of any encumbrance. He further said that had he known of that condition he would certainly had not purchased the said building from the defendant. It was not in dispute that the condition on the removal of the window protrusions was not a restriction or condition that appeared on the title of Lot 26. The plaintiff further stated that he only became aware of this condition during the trial of the earlier suit - sometime in 1992. The plaintiff now seeks for reliefs mentioned in the case. In her defence, the defendant said that the plaintiff had seen the said building and was satisfied with its construction prior to the purchase. She said that the plaintiff never asked her about the window protrusions. She also said that she had already forgotten about the condition imposed by the LBCH on the need to remove the window protrusions whenever the owner of Lot 25 wished to build thereon. She denied that she had deliberately withheld the information on the condition from the plaintiff. Abdul Hamid Embong J referred to cases of Ang Hiok Seng v Yim Yut Kiu [1997] 1 AMR 917; Derry v Peek [1880] AC 14; Holmes v Jones [1907] 4 CLR and others and has held that it was clear that the plaintiff was time barred. He would therefore hold that the defence of limitation must, on the facts, succeed. For the above reasons, the plaintiffs claim is dismissed with costs.

This rule is claimed that it is not designed to shield sellers who engage in fraud or bad faith dealing by making false or misleading representations about the quality or condition of a particular product. It merely summarizes the concept that a purchaser must examine, judge, and test a product considered for purchase himself or herself. However, the common law legal maxim caveat emptor reflects the value-less acquisitive philosophy. Consumers are supposed to be careful (as in the common law principle of caveat emptor). As long as sellers do not flaunt the law, they can get away with gross exploitation, as there is no need to disclose all the information about a product. Although the consumer movement has resulted in many consumer protection laws, the philosophy still prevails. For example, the small print in insurance contracts, and the conditions hidden in footnotes (if at all disclosed) in advertised offers all point to caveat emptor in operation. These contracts require the disclosure of the original price because it might influence the buyer’s decision to enter into a contract with the seller. This means the buyer has put some degree of trust in the seller regarding the information he/she provides about the goods. To make this trust meaningful, the law imposes upon the seller a duty to disclose the true facts, for such a disclosure is regarded as indicating his sincerity.

Finally, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) warned that selfish and dishonest traders would face punishment in the hereafter for undermining the fundamental basis of contracts. Wathilah bin Asqa’ related that once the Messenger of Allah came to them and said: “O you traders, beware of telling lies in (your business) transactions.” Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) always encouraged the Muslims to do business, as it is considered an aspect of Ibadah. This can be seen from a verse of the Qur’an: “And when the prayer ends, disperse in the land and seek of Allah’s bounty, and remember Allah much, that you may be successful.” [Q: 62:10] Of course, no action is left without regulation under Islamic law. Thus, a Muslim is obliged to be honest and fair in his business. He must shun fraud, deceit and perfidy so that his wealth is gained from healthy sources. For example, the Qur’an orders businessmen:  “Give full measure and be not of those who cause loss to others” [Q: 26:181]; “And weigh with an equal balance” [Q: 18:35]. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) approved of and confirmed transactions which do not conflict with the principles of the Shari’ah and disapproved of and prohibited those business practices which contradict the Shari’ah’s objectives and aims. The prohibitions include transactions that involve the element of fraud or deceit, exorbitant profit or injustice to one of the contracting parties, all of which are contrary to the overriding principle of good faith and fair-dealing mentioned in the Qur’an: “Do not defraud people of their things, and do not commit corruption in the earth” [Q: 26: 183]. The elements of good faith and fair-dealing are not new in Islamic terminology because they are an integral part of the contract. The attributes of truthfulness, honesty, justice and righteousness are among the fundamental principles which Islam imposes on every Muslim in every aspect of life. Without these elements, a business contract is regarded as lacking perfection in accordance with Islamic good manners, decency and ethical standards.

The Qur’an announces a general rule that mutual consent is a condition for the validity of every kind of contract. There is no basis for excluding the hire-purchase contract from that general rule.  “O you who believe, do not consume your property among yourselves unjustly; rather, [it should be] trade by mutual consent amongst you. And do not kill yourselves (nor kill one another). Surely, Allah is Most Merciful to you”  [Q: 4:29]. The element of mutual consent was emphasized in the  Hadith: “It is unlawful to possess the property of a Muslim without his express consent.” As evident from the Qur’an and Hadith, Islam has laid down an ethical discipline in commercial transactions for the believers to follow. Dishonest traders who contravene those rules are blameworthy and liable to punishment on the Day of Judgment. The Prophet (pbuh) strongly promoted generosity to purify one’s account of malpractices and unsuitable acts while conducting business. He emphasized that the seller and buyer should explain the good and bad points of the transaction to gain the blessing of the Almighty in the transaction.  In short, Islamic law emphasizes good conduct, decency and ethical standards of law and morality as a part of the contract. These must be molded together to ensure that justice is served to both parties, the purchaser and the seller. Only then can the objective of the Shari’ah be achieved.  

Da'ie atau Daki?

Dakwah ialah satu kewajipan dan satu kemulian bagi umat ini. Tugas menyeru kepada kebaikan dan mencegah kemungkaran ini adalah sebaik-baik kerja yang ditugaskan kepada kita. 

Setiap orang telah Allah meletakkan penghargaan sebagai khaira ummati iaitu sebaik-baik umat,hanya kerana tugas dakwah ini.

Firman Allah SWT, maksudnya:

"Kamu (wahai umat Muhammad) adalah sebaik-baik umat yang dilahirkan, (kerana) kamu menyuruh berbuat segala perkara yang baik dan melarang daripada segala perkara yang salah (buruk dan keji), serta kamu pula beriman kepada Allah (dengan sebenar-benar iman)." (Surah Ali-Imran: Ayat 110)

"Dan tidak ada yang lebih baik perkataannya daripada orang yang menyeru kepada (mengesakan dan mematuhi perintah) Allah, serta ia sendiri mengerjakan amal yang salih, sambil berkata: "Sesungguhnya aku adalah dari orang- orang Islam (yang berserah bulat-bulat kepada Allah)!" (Surah Fussilat:Ayat 33)

Apakah itu dakwah?

Dakwah ialah mengajak kepada kebaikan dan menghalang daripada kerosakan. Dakwah juga banyak pecahan dan bentuk-bentuknya. Cukuplah untuk kita faham bahawa dakwah itu hukumnya wajib kpd setiap individu dgn tahap yg berbeza-beza.

Dai bukan Daki

Sesuatu yang menyayat hati dan telah lama saya pendam dalam-dalam. Biarlah saya ceritakan supaya ia menjadi iktibar. Saya terkilan dengan beberapa kelompok manusia yang kononnya melaksanakan dakwah, melaksanakan amar makruf nahi mungkar tapi dalam masa yang sama mereka tertinggal satu elemen yang sangat penting dalam berdakwah. Peristiwa ini berlaku kepada kenalan saya sendiri. Dia hebat. Dalam banyak perkara, saya kagum dengan dia. Cuma saya terkilan dengan tindakan melulunya dalam melabel manusia dengan gelaran yang buruk. Tiada sifat berbaik sangka.

Kesilapan Kita

Kita jahil. Oleh itu, kira perlu mempelajari ilmu. Kita tidak sedar, bahawa tugas kita hanyalah menyeru manusia kepada kebaikan, bukannya melaknat manusia. Apa yang terjadi, si dai itu marahkan sahabatnya yang kononnya suka mencarut, lalu tanpa berfikir panjang sahabat itu dilabel sebagai syaitan lalu dihebahkannya pula. Apa kurangnya dia dengan syaitan? Hanya tahu memalukan orang lain sahaja!

Tembok Kebencian

Saya pasti ini adalah salah satu punca mengapa golongan yang menyeru kepada kebaikan dibenci. Mereka bukan dibenci kerana tanggungjawab Islam, sebaliknya dibenci kerana kecurangan mereka, menjual nama Islam dengan nafsu. Ramai daripada kita yang menegur, berdakwah dan menasihat kerana kepentingan peribadi seperti mahu dipandang mulia oleh orang lain.

Ada. Saya sangat pasti mengenai kewujudan golongan ini. Lebih-lebih lagi di laman sosial atau di blog. Dia akan menghentam orang itu habis-habisan, melabelnya dengan label yang keji kerana mahu menunjukkan dirinya baik. Tidakkah kita sedar, bahawa Iblis dihalau keluar dari syurga kerana ucapan keramat, "Ana khairun minhu," maksudnya "Aku lebih baik daripada dia!"

Bersangka Baik

Husnudzon. Semua orang tahu. Tahu sebut, tahu berhujah tetapi tidak tahu mempraktikkannya. Bersangka baiklah sesama makhluk. Mungkin orang yang kita tegur itu, hari ni dia tidak mahu dengar, tapi jangan sesekali kita mencanangkan keburukannya.

Pada zaman Rasulullah dahulu, Rasulullah telah menyenaraikan 360-370 nama orang munafik dan ia adalah rahsia. Ia adalah rahsia! Sedangkan Rasulullah pun merahsiakan nama orang munafik, apakah kita lebih mulia daripada Rasulullah untuk menyatakan si polan itu syaitan dan si polan itu orang yang tertutup hatinya?

Hikmah Kebijaksaan

Allah berfirman maksudnya: "Serulah ke jalan Tuhanmu (wahai Muhammad) dengan hikmat kebijaksanaan dan nasihat pengajaran yang baik, dan berbahaslah dengan mereka (yang engkau serukan itu) dengan cara yang lebih baik sesungguhnya Tuhanmu Dialah jua yang lebih mengetahui akan orang yang sesat daripada jalan-Nya, dan Dialah jua yang lebih mengetahui akan orang-orang yang mendapat hidayah pertunjuk."(Surah An-Nahl: Ayat 125)

Apa yang kita faham tentang hikmah? Ibnu Katsir mentafsirkan hikmah itu dengan kemampuan seseorang menerima teguran kita. Kalau orang tua, tegurlah dengan cara orang tua. Kalau kawan-kawan, tegurlah dengan cara kawan.

"Jika kamu menegur saudaramu dalam sembunyi (face to face), maka kamu telah menjalankan tanggungjawabmu, sebaliknya jika kamu menegurnya di khalayak umum, maka kamu telah membogelkannya di depan orang ramai." ~Imam Syafie

Keburukan orang lain bukannya bahan untuk dijadikan senda tawa, atau topik umpatan, sebaliknya keaiban orang lain harus kita pelihara. Jika dia sudah insaf, Alhamdulillah. Jika masih belum insaf, teruskan berusaha. Itu saja.

Menanam Bunga

Bagi saya, orang yang berdakwah ini sama seperti orang yang menanam bunga. Ini bukan kerja yang hasilnya ekspres. Kita tidak boleh mengaharap bahawa jika hari ini kita dakwah, esok dia akan berubah. Tidak sama sekali! Sama seperti orang menanam bunga, kerjanya tidak akan selesai dengan hanya menyemai benih. Dia perlu menyiram, membaja dan melindungi pokok daripada serangan serangga perosak.

Dakwah juga memerlukan kita perlu dekati mad'u hari-hari. Nasihat setiap hari. Sayang pun setiap hari. Dan itu terlaksana jika kita menjalinkan hubungan persahabatan kita dengan mereka yang baik. Usah kita mudah melaknat pokok yang belum berbunga, kerana itu mungkin tanda bajanya masih kurang, airnya tidak cukup, atau mungkin persekitarannya tidak sihat. Siapa tahu? Atau mungkin juga kerana Tuhan memang tidak mahu dia tumbuh berbunga, siapa boleh bantah?

Kesimpulan

Harus kita ingat, kewajipan kita ialah menegur kesalahan, menasihati kekurangan dan mencegah kemungkaran. Allah tidak menyuruh kita mengumpat apatah lagi mencanang keburukan orang lain. Persaudaraan Islam itu perlu dijaga bahkan asas dalam berdakwah ialah kasih sayang. Jangan lagi menegur kerana benci atau dendam. Tegurlah kerana sayang.

Jangan membenci pelaku maksiat, sebaliknya benci hanya kepada maksiat yang dilakukan. Akibat jahil dan tidak berhikmah, orang lain bukan sahaja menjadi semakin jauh daripada Islam sebaliknya membenci Islam. Siapa yang mahu bertanggungjawab di atas perkara ini? Kita selalu menghina orang lain kerana kesilapan yang dilakukannya, tapi pernahkah kita mendoakan mereka? Adakah kita dai atau daki?

Menggapai Revolusi Pemikiran

    Aku yakin bahawa nasib negara Malaysia terletak dalam tangan rakyatnya. Apabila rakyat inginkan perubahan, nescaya rakyat berupaya memberi kesan. Rakyat Malaysia berkuasa untuk menaikkan pemimpin seperti juga rakyat berkuasa menggulingkan mana-mana pemerintah. Rakyat juga mampu mengubah tahap sosio-ekonomi negara supaya ia bertambah baik atau bertambah buruk.

    Majoriti rakyat Malaysia adalah Melayu. Melayu itu pula semestinya Muslim (dipersetujui dalam perlembagaan dan pentakrifan Kamus Dewan). Melayu mempunyai satu semangat yang tidak mungkin terhalang apabila ia membara. Melayu mempunyai akhlak yang dicemburui semua jenis masyarakat di sekitar dunia. Melayu mempunyai sifat kasih sayang semula jadi yang tidak berbelah bagi hingga menyebabkan Melayu mudah diambil kesempatan.

    Namun, Melayu mempunyai masalah yang besar. Melayu tidak akan bangkit selagi perutnya kenyang. Melayu tidak akan bangun selagi tilamnya empuk dan selesa. Melayu tidak akan sama sekali bangkit selagi ditawarkan kelebihan duniawi. Melayu itu hebat. Apabila ditikam dan ditetak, tubuh Melayu boleh menjadi kebal. Apabila ditentang, parang Melayu boleh terbang bersama semangatnya membakar semua halangan. Apabila ditekan, Melayu boleh menanti dalam kesabaran dan harapan. Hanya Allah yang Maha Mengetahui akan kehebatan Melayu. Namun, apabila Melayu dilemparkan wang pada mukanya, matanya menjadi buta. Apabila Melayu ditawarkan jawatan dan kuasa, tubuhnya menjadi layu. Apabila dijaga supaya perutnya tetap kenyang, akalnya menjadi tumpul dan bodoh.

    Aku lihat pemuda Melayu sudah terlalu terbawa-bawa dengan hiburan. Pemuda Melayu sudah tidak lagi memikirkan nasib keluarganya. Pemuda Melayu tidak lagi memikirkan keutamaan Islam dalam kehidupan. Pemuda Melayu tidak lagi menghiraukan keadaan sekelilingnya yang akan memusnahkan dunia.

    Melayu yang tua pula sudah terlalu taksub dengan nostalgia dahulu kala. Melayu tua terlalu taksub dengan pemimpin lama. Melayu tua terlalu berpegang kepada idealogi lama. Melayu tua takut akan sebarang perubahan dan menghalang semua usaha mujaddidin negara.

    Aku yakin, jika kita kekal dalam keadaan ini, nescaya kita tidak mungkin akan maju. Kita akan dibelenggu pemikiran sekular. Kita akan dipenjara pendidikan sekular.Kita akan ditekan pemerintahan sekular. Marilah kita sedar akan perjuangan kita. Demi Allah, kita akan bersatu dan berjuang dengan membawa REVOLUSI PEMIKIRAN dalam diri setiap Muslim di seluruh negara dan dunia.

Cranky Old Man

When an old man died in the geriatric ward of a nursing home in an Australian country town, it was believed that he had nothing left of any value.

Later, when the nurses were going through his meagre possessions, They found this poem. Its quality and content so impressed the staff that copies were made and distributed to every nurse in the hospital.

One nurse took her copy to Melbourne .. The old man's sole bequest to posterity has since appeared in the Christmas editions of magazines around the country and appearing in mags for Mental Health. A slide presentation has also been made based on his simple, but eloquent, poem.

And this old man, with nothing left to give to the world, is now the author of this 'anonymous' poem winging across the Internet.

Cranky Old Man.....

What do you see nurses? . . .. . .What do you see?

What are you thinking .. . when you're looking at me?

A cranky old man, . . . . . .not very wise,

Uncertain of habit .. . . . . . . .. with faraway eyes?

Who dribbles his food .. . ... . . and makes no reply.

When you say in a loud voice . .'I do wish you'd try!'

Who seems not to notice . . .the things that you do.

And forever is losing . . . . . .. . . A sock or shoe?

Who, resisting or not . . . ... lets you do as you will,

With bathing and feeding . . . .The long day to fill?

Is that what you're thinking?. .Is that what you see?

Then open your eyes, nurse .you're not looking at me.

I'll tell you who I am . . . . .. As I sit here so still,

As I do at your bidding, .. . . . as I eat at your will.

I'm a small child of Ten . .with a father and mother,

Brothers and sisters .. . . .. . who love one another

A young boy of Sixteen . . . .. with wings on his feet

Dreaming that soon now . . .. . . a lover he'll meet.

A groom soon at Twenty . . . ..my heart gives a leap.

Remembering, the vows .. .. .that I promised to keep.

At Twenty-Five, now . . . . .I have young of my own.

Who need me to guide . . . And a secure happy home.

A man of Thirty . .. . . . . My young now grown fast,

Bound to each other . . .. With ties that should last.

At Forty, my young sons .. .have grown and are gone,

But my woman is beside me . . to see I don't mourn.

At Fifty, once more, .. ...Babies play 'round my knee,

Again, we know children . . . . My loved one and me.

Dark days are upon me . . . . My wife is now dead.

I look at the future ... . . . . I shudder with dread.

For my young are all rearing .. . . young of their own.

And I think of the years . . . And the love that I've known.

I'm now an old man . . . . . . .. and nature is cruel.

It's jest to make old age . . . . . . . look like a fool.

The body, it crumbles .. .. . grace and vigour, depart.

There is now a stone . . . where I once had a heart.

But inside this old carcass . A young man still dwells,

And now and again . . . . . my battered heart swells

I remember the joys . . . . .. . I remember the pain.

And I'm loving and living . . . . . . . life over again.

I think of the years, all too few . . .. gone too fast.

And accept the stark fact . . . that nothing can last.

So open your eyes, people .. . . . .. . . open and see.

Not a cranky old man .

Look closer . . . . see .. .. . .. .... . ME!!

Remember this poem when you next meet an older person who you might brush aside without looking at the young soul within ... . . .

we will all, one day, be there, too!