Subject of hadith in schools does not contradict the constitution - GPMS

KOTA BHARU - Introducing any aspect of Islamic teachings and implementing Islamic teachings within the education system never contradicts any provisions of the Federal Constitution or laws related to the education system, including the Education Act 1996.

The Federation of Peninsula Malay Students (GPMS) Deputy Permanent Chairman Nik Saiful Adli Burhan stated that the Education Ministry action to introduce the Module of Appreciating the 40 Hadiths of Imam Al-Nawawi is aimed at implementing the pure values in those hadiths.

According to him, these hadiths encompass life guidance that isn't solely about the worship of Muslims, but also covers the entire moral and pure values of human life across various religions or beliefs.

"I fully support the ministry's efforts to enhance moral education and the pure values of life, and not just focusing on general education the main goal of education in schools.

"I call on all parties, including representatives of other religions, to be open-minded in assessing the steps taken by the government to ensure harmony and unity among the races in this country.

"At the same time, the national education system should provide comprehensive benefits to the lives of future generations," he said.

On Tuesday, the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Taoism (MCCBCHST) was reported to oppose any action to introduce subjects related to hadiths in all schools across the country.

The council stated that the step to introduce such subjects nationwide might be in conflict with the Federal Constitution.

"The hadith is clearly part of the Islamic religion.

"There seems to be no provision in our Federal Constitution that allows such teachings of Islam in national-type schools.

"This might be implemented in Islamic religious schools," MCCBCHST said in a statement.

Commenting further on this matter, Nik Saiful, who is also a lawyer, said that MCCBCHST's claim that teaching subjects related to hadiths in all schools nationwide contradicts the provisions of the Federal Constitution is a misinterpretation of the law.

"Referring to Article 3 of the Federal Constitution, it states that Islam is the religion of the Federation, but other religions may be practiced peacefully and harmoniously in all parts of the Federation," he added.