KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg was officially appointed as the new President of the Malaysian Islamic Welfare Organisation (PERKIM) during the 64th National PERKIM Annual General Meeting held here, Saturday.

His appointment replaces former Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad who held the position since 2006.

In the same meeting, Tun Dr. Mahathir was appointed as a Special Advisor to PERKIM.

In his speech during the Special Ceremony for the Handover of the New PERKIM Leadership, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari expressed appreciation for the trust given and pledged to shoulder the responsibility to the best of his ability.

He also acknowledged that Tun Dr. Mahathir's previous leadership had brought PERKIM to a proud level and set an example in the struggle for da'wah and welfare.

“Continuing the legacy left behind is not an easy task, but with strong support from all levels, I am confident that we can further strengthen PERKIM’s role in the modern dakwah landscape,” he said.

Commenting on the current challenges, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari stressed the need for PERKIM to remain vocal and active in championing the cause of Muslims, especially in global issues such as the conflict in Gaza.

“In my opinion, PERKIM must remain vocal and active in expressing its stance and defending the cause of its fellow believers through an effective and prudent approach,” he said.

In the local context, he stressed the importance of a more inclusive approach based on love, education and continuous awareness in efforts to reach out to the community.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Economy, Dato Hanifah Hajar Taib, Vice President of PERKIM, Dato’ Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim and members of the PERKIM supreme council.- UKASnews