The dynamics of Islamic Education must be revised, says ABIM

Focus

By LILYANA RIZAL

04 Dec 2022 11:28am

Muhammad Faisal Abdul Aziz

SHAH ALAM - The dynamics of Islamic Education in the country must be studied, to be in accordance with the practice of Islam in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society said Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia (ABIM).

In a congratulatory statement to the newly-minted education minister, Fadhlina Siddi, its president Muhammad Faisal Abdul Aziz said this was pertinent to ensure the country’s education system is directed towards building students' character and skills based on Islamic values which are considered universal.

"In reference to the opinion expressed by the late national-level Tokoh Maal Hijrah, Prof Datuk Dr Siddiq Fadzil who suggested for the review in Islamic education especially in the integration of Fiqh Wataniah and Fiqh Taayush, as well as adding more interactions with communities of various races and religions.

"The curriculum review of the education policy is important in shaping the character of the Malaysian nation," he added as he called on Fadhlina to push for the review.

This was one of the five education issues pointed out by ABIM.

"Other issues are dropping out of learning. This is a serious issue and it requires 3M reinforcement at the first stage (Level 1) of primary school,” he said.

3M reinforcement is a government initiative which refers to ensuring that first-stage primary school students can read, write and count (“Membaca, Mengira dan Mengira”).

The first stage of primary school involves Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3 students.

The Digital Education Policy which should also be accelerated to ensure digital adaptation in the education ecosystem said Muhammad Faisal.

This policy started during the pandemic when students under the Movement Control Order (MCO) had to undergo online learning on fully digital platforms.

"Further, dilapidated schools which has been an aging issue in our country. This needs a creative and drastic solution in order to solved," he added.

Further, ABIM also called for the education system to be re-aligned with the National Education Philosophy, whereby Muhammad Faisal said test-oriented learning was still prevalent in the national education system.

He also said that ABIM will be an active stakeholder and will work together with the government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, to bring about positive changes in the national education system.