Use social media to foster unity

KUCHING: Muslims in Sarawak are encouraged to use the social media as a platform to foster unity in the run-up to the Maal Hijrah 1446 Hijrah celebrations.

In making the call, Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS) president Datuk Misnu Taha emphasised the importance of using the social media wisely to ensure the dissemination of positive information, particularly the deeper meanings and messages of Maal Hijrah, to all citizens.

He highlighted the necessity of reaching out to the younger generation, who were heavily engaged with social media platforms.

“This is actually an opportunity for us. But we must remember our manners and ethics in using social media. Sometimes, when we misuse it, instead of achieving good results, we end up seeing the negative effects.

“Alhamdulillah, our Mufti is also active on the social media, and our ustazs are present on these platforms.

“We should use these platforms to inform people about the benefits, advantages, and the philosophy behind Maal Hijrah to help us progress. We cannot overlook the importance of social media in advancing the ummah,” he said.

Misnu told reporters this after inviting the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi to attend the state-level Maal Hijrah celebrations, scheduled for July 6-7.

He added that the Sarawak State Mosque had established its own internet radio platform, Radio Internet Islamik Sarawak (IRIS) to broadcast information aimed at developing and strengthening the identity and moral values of the community.

The platform leverages online sharing and preaching to reach a broader audience.

“At the State Mosque, we have an internet radio, IRIS, where we apply the use of the Internet, including Facebook and other platforms, to channel matters related to development and Islamic values for our community in Sarawak.

“This initiative has been successfully implemented and continues to serve our community,” he added.