Sarawak may hold special prayers amid ongoing heatwave, says Misnu Taha

Datuk Misnu Taha

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, March 25: Sarawak may organise special prayers, including solat hajat (special prayer of need) and the recitation of Qunut Nazilah (prayer for protection), if the current hot weather conditions persist.

Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS) president Datuk Misnu Taha said the matter will first be discussed with the State Mufti before any decision is made, adding that a proposal may then be submitted to the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg if deemed necessary.

“As we know, every year we face different challenges. During the rainy season, we may experience floods, while in the dry season, we face heat and drought.

“These are all part of Allah SWT’s will,” he told reporters during Hari Raya open house held at Sarawak Islamic Complex here today.

Misnu noted that similar religious measures had been undertaken in the past, such as the recitation of Qunut Nazilah across mosques and surau Statewide during crises in West Asia, as well as the organisation of solat hajat.

“Insya-Allah, I will discuss this with the Mufti, and if needed, we may hold solat hajat and Qunut Nazilah, possibly on every Friday,” he said, adding that such efforts are aimed at seeking protection and well-being for the people of Sarawak.

He added that prayers would also be extended for Muslims in the Middle East, in hopes that peace and stability would be restored in the region.

On another matter, Misnu said there has been a positive increase in zakat contributions during the recent Ramadan period, although detailed figures are not yet available.

He attributed the rise to ongoing promotional efforts encouraging Muslims to fulfil their zakat obligations, including zakat on income, business and assets.

“I urge all Muslims who are working to pay zakat on their income, as it contributes to the development of the State and the nation,” he stressed.

He added that matters relating to tax and zakat payments are subject to existing regulations. — DayakDaily