SIBU: A fatwa is not merely a religious ruling; it serves as a vital bulwark in protecting the faith (akidah) of Muslims from the influence of foreign ideologies and deviant teachings.

Sarawak Governor, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, said that in today’s increasingly challenging era of social media, Muslims need firm and authoritative references to ensure that their faith remains protected from ideologies that could undermine their beliefs and the unity of the community.

“An authoritative fatwa acts as a shield that prevents the spread of misguided doctrines and harmful influences that could weaken one’s faith.

“With clear and widely disseminated fatwas, society will be better guided and less susceptible to provocations that may threaten our beliefs,” he said.

He delivered the remarks in his address at the Opening Ceremony of the Sarawak State-Level Fatwa Seminar held at the Sarawak Islamic Complex Hall in Sibu on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi stressed that history has shown that the issuance of fatwas is not something new within Islamic tradition; it has long served as an essential foundation for addressing issues faced by society since the time of the Companions of the Prophet and early scholars.

He explained that in Sarawak, before the establishment of formal institutions, Islamic affairs were largely managed by customary judges and religious figures.

“The establishment of the Fatwa Committee marked an important milestone in strengthening the role of the mufti as the administrator of Islamic legal affairs in this state.

“A fatwa does more than provide answers to questions of law, it acts as a bridge that connects the scriptural texts of Sharia with the realities of our uniquely diverse society here in Sarawak,” he added.

He further stated that the Astana Negeri has always prioritised the strengthening of the fatwa institution as a key pillar in ensuring that every legal decision issued is authoritative, credible, and aligned with the needs and realities of the Muslim community in Sarawak.

The seminar, themed “Authoritative Fatwas, Sustainable Ummah,” serves as a vital platform to enhance public understanding of the function and importance of fatwas as a guide for living in accordance with Sharia.

Also present were the wife of the Sarawak Governor, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Moh Sanusi, Sarawak Mufti Datu Kipli Yassin, President of the Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS) Datuk Misnu Taha, Terengganu Mufti Datuk Dr Mohamad Sabri Haron, Negeri Sembilan Mufti Associate Professor Dato’ Dr Faudzinaim Badaruddin, and other distinguished guests. -UKASnews