Emulate Prophet Muhammad's Da'wah Approach: PM Anwar Ibrahim
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged Malaysians to emulate the Prophet Muhammad's compassionate approach to spreading Islam.
- He emphasized that a harsh method of propagation can hinder the religion's growth and alienate people.
- Anwar called for a more attractive and less intimidating presentation of Islamic teachings to counter negative perceptions.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on Malaysians to adopt the compassionate and wise approach to Islamic propagation exemplified by Prophet Muhammad and his companions. Speaking at the National Maulidur Rasul Celebration 2026 at Universiti Putra Malaysia, Anwar stressed that the methods used by the Prophet were crucial for social transformation and reform.
That is why the great figures of the past were more successful in attracting people to Islam. Imagine, our da'wah and our movements now, people are more afraid and not interested in Islam.
Anwar referenced the writings of Ibnu Batutah, noting that early Islamic societies demonstrated remarkable tolerance and wisdom. He warned that presenting Islam too rigidly could impede its spread and alienate potential followers. "This is a reminder to ourselves. How can we improve?" he asked, contrasting the Prophet's success with current perceptions where Islam may appear frightening or unappealing.
It is different from what we mentioned earlier. We mention that Rasulullah SAW is the best example, but in appreciating it, it is not necessarily complete or consistent with the message. This is a reminder to ourselves. How can we improve?
The Prime Minister acknowledged that some communities are not only resistant to Islam but also fearful of its tone. He suggested that the problem lies not just with external opposition, which has existed since the religion's inception, but also with the approach taken by Muslims themselves. Anwar drew parallels with historical periods of imperialism and colonialism, where harsh methods were used to suppress beliefs and subjugate minds.
The problem is not with others, the problem is also with us. We are used to it and we know about the objections and opposition from enemies from the beginning, not something new.
In a separate matter, Anwar announced that a proposal for a forensic audit into the losses incurred by Felda will be presented to the Cabinet. This follows a statement by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who insisted on the audit to identify those responsible for Felda's nearly RM10 billion in losses.
That shows what? A harsh attitude rejects our faith, our morals, colonizes our thoughts and our souls.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.