'Don't question Imam Nawawi's 40 Hadith Module' - Pas Ulama tells MCA, NGOs

SHAH ALAM - MCA and non-Islamic non-governmental organisations (NGOs) should not question the implementation of the newly introduced "Imam Al-Nawawi's 40 Hadith" module in school for Muslim students.

The Central Pas Ulama Council (DUPP) chief Datuk Ahmad Yahaya said the teachings and appreciation of the hadiths should not be worried about.

He said the module was part of an ethical and value application for students guided by Islamic teachings.

"DUPP is confused as to why this is feared among a group of non-Muslims.

"Is it the continuation of efforts to drive Islamophobia in a nation that is made into a struggle of certain politicians until all matters related to Islam would be concerned by non-Muslim groups? "DUPP also reminds certain groups not to spark sentiments of Islamophobia in the nation," he said in a statement on Saturday.

On August 19, the Education Ministry approved the Appreciation of Imam Nawawi’s 40 Hadiths module for the purpose of instilling appreciation for the hadiths at the school level.

The controversy started when the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) objected to the intention and claimed it was against the Federal Constitution and the right to freedom of religion.

The MCA's'sthnic Relations and Religious Affairs Bureau urged the government to postpone it so it could be discussed again at cabinet level.

Ahmad added that the implementation of the module should be supported as it was closely related to the efforts to have students approach the appreciation of Rasulullah SAW’s vision, which was part of the guidance and divine revelation.

"It is not appropriate for disputes or any form of objection to be presented, let alone by non-Muslims towards the module.

"DUPP supports the ministry's introduction of Imam Nawawi’s 40 Hadith Module in schools under it," he said.