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JAMIYAH SINGAPORE
‫ﺻﻮ ﺕ ﺍﻹﺳﻼﻡ‬
of Islam
Suara Islam
MCI (P) • 093/05/2013
aug / sep Issue • 2013
Allahyarham Tuan Haji Abu Bakar Maidin
1927 - 2013
What’s Inside:
Tuan Haji
Abu Bakar Maidin
The Man Behind Jamiyah
Chronicles
of Hajj
Legal Clinic
Anniversary
The Great Manifestation
of Unity and Tawhid
The 37th Anniversary of
Jamiyah Free Legal Clinic
Issue 2 / 2013
Voice
Contents
Contents
Tribute
05
08
10
12
Abu Bakar Maidin: The Man Behind Jamiyah
Milestones
The Moments
Remembering Abu Bakar Maidin
Chronicles of Hajj
Dakwah
47
49
50
52
58
Kasih Ibu Membawa Ke Syurga
Ulasan Buku Rangkaian Pantun Dakwah
Islam The Perennial Peace Mission
நல்லிணக்கேம நம் வழி*
‫ﺣﺴﻦ ﺍﻟﻈﻦ‬
14 Hajj and Modernity: The Evolving Spirit of Hajj
16 Different Degrees of Hajj
18 Hajj Memories: Iman Wong
Features
20 37th Anniversary Jamiyah Free Legal Clinic
22 Jamiyah National Day Observance Ceremony
24 Raya Away From Home
14
Events
25
26
28
29
30
31
Halimah Yacob Hi-Tea Felicitation
Remembering Nuzulul Quran
Celebrations Under the Umbrella of Love
The Blessings of Ramadhan
A Helping Hand for the Needy
Engaging the Young Leaders of Tomorrow
Women
20
32 Regional Women Forum On Empowering
Teenagers’ Self Identity
33 Heaven Lies Beneath Her Feet
Education
34
36
38
46
‘Eye’ Witness A Mathematics Genius
Striving for Islamic Excellence
The Quran Festival
Lend-A-Hand Graduation Ceremony
25
Photo Diary
40 Photo Diary
05
Voice of Islam
3
Editorial
Editorial Board
Advisor
Prof (Adjunct) Dr Mohd Hasbi
Abu Bakar
Editor
MOHD HOSNI ABDUL MALIK
Editorial Board
DR H. M. Saleem
DR ISA HASSAN
Mohd Noor Said
AZEEMAH MUSTAFA
Contributors
DR H. M. Saleem
AZEEMAH MUSTAFA
Zainuddin Muhammad Ismail
ANDI ABDUL KADIR ANDI KITTA
MOHD ASHIK
Iylia nurliyana
Asnira hassan
Farhana aziz
Designers
Azhar Kamar
NOOR HIDAYAH
SYAZWANI SYAFAWATI
Published by:
Jamiyah Singapore
Printed by:
Multiprint Services
Licence no.:
125/01/2013
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Jamiyah Singapore
31 Lorong 12 Geylang
Singapore 399006
Tel: +65 6743 1211
Fax: +65 6745 0610
Email: info@jamiyah.org.sg
Website: www.jamiyah.org.sg
4
Voice of Islam
Editorial Note
Assalamualaikum wr wb.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Tuan Haji Abu Bakar Maidin, Special Advisor to Jamiyah Singapore,
passed away on the 10th of September. He was an outstanding individual
who shaped Jamiyah to where it is now. We pay tribute to Tuan Haji Abu
Bakar Maidin and take a look back at the highlights of his legacy.
The Chronicles of Hajj: A recollection of the past, present and future of
Makkah is a compilation that highlights the changes of Hajj through
time.Hajj is among the five pillars of Islam and is performed by millions
of Muslims during the month of Zulhijjah. This unified act of worship
takes place yearly in the holy place of Makkah where Muslim pilgrims
from all over the world come together and bring themselves closer
to God. An embodiment of humility, Hajj promotes brotherhood. A
short write-up on evolution of Hajj will shed light on how the changes
surrounding Makkah has impacted pilgrims through advancement of
technology. We also take a look at a personal recount of Iman Wong, a
Chinese-Muslim convert as she shares with us her Hajj experience.
In this modern day, the community continuously faces challenges. As
an organization, we collectively rally efforts to tackle these challenges
head on. VOI glimpses at the many efforts that had taken place in
Jamiyah such as the launching of I-Counsel in conjunction with Jamiyah
Legal Clinic reaching its 37th anniversary, food ration distribution,
seminars that are aimed at motivating the community in Singapore.
Jamiyah continuously strives to serve and build the local and global
community in the areas of Welfare Services or Education. We take note
of achievements made by members of the community such as Nuzulul
Quran, I Am a Genius Workshop, Haflah and Lend a Hand Graduation
Ceremony. The Exemplary Mother Award (EMA) is a nationwide
prestigious event that takes place every year. This year, EMA will be held
at Ritz Carlton Millenia Singapore. We take a peek at the final round of
judging with the top 10 finalists before a panel of judges.
We bring this latest issue of Voice of Islam, to you in the convenience of
your home and time online. We value the confidence that we have been
given and Jamiyah Singapore will always work towards fulfilling our
responsibility towards the community. Through our dedicated efforts,
we shall continue to build and uplift the community, Insya Allah.
MOHD HOSNI ABDUL MALIK
Editor, Voice of Islam
Tribute
Abu Bakar Maidin
the man behind jamiyah
IT is often glossed over that the human is essentially a being of
values. The late Tuan Haji Abu Bakar Maidin was a man of such
and centred his life around these values. He was a visionary
who championed many causes for not only the local, but
also the international community. He had big hopes for the
community and shouldered a dream for a better tomorrow. He
enforced the right values within his family and also led them by
example.
Voice of Islam
5
Tribute
Haji Abu Bakar had gone through
difficult times in his life, from the
relative poverty of his childhood, the
ordeals of the Japanese occupation to
the struggle of surviving in the business
world and eventually, also faced the
challenges of the society in the 20th
century. He envisioned change for
the community and strongly believed
in ‘God will not change the condition
of people until they change what is in
themselves’ (Ar Ra’d 13:11).
The experience from his struggles
shaped his psyche; It surfaced the
Islamic values infused by his role
models and nurtured by the volunteer
missionaries at the old Jamiyah
Singapore which included founder,
Maulana Abdul Aleem Siddique. Haji
Abu Bakar was also inspired by the
personal ethics of Prophet Muhammad
PBUH: Fatanah, Sidq, Amanah and
Tabligh which refer to Intelligence,
Truthfulness, Sense of Responsibility
and Ongoing Missionary Work. This
was often verbalized by our iconic
leader.
Haji Abu Bakar often emphasized the
need to “walk the talk” as he saw it as
the most effective form of missionary
work. He believed that whatever we do
is “ibadah” (worship of Allah) because
it is a service to humanity. The caveat
is that it is done sincerely and with
excellence because wherever we are,
we are inescapably in the presence
of Allah SWT. It was his striving for
excellence that enabled Haji Abu
Bakar to become an icon admired by
Muslims and non –Muslims alike.
“God will not change the condition of people
until they change what is in themselves”.
(Ar Ra’d 13:11)
and challenged him to expand his
knowledge of work for Islam. He
was moved by the words Maulana
Abdul Aleem Siddique - to pull all
communities together for the love of
God, the vision of Islamic unity. With
such exposure, Haji Abu Bakar realised
the global dimensions of Islam and
the great potential of the Ummah.
His involvement with Jamiyah began
in his youth as part of the Youth Corp
and eventually the Darah Muda (Young
Blood). Darah Muda consisted of
volunteers who tirelessly devoted their
time to Jamiyah. When he was elected
as President of Jamiyah in 1970, Haji
Abu Bakar promised that the Society
would work for the progress of Islam
and the community. He also pledged
that he would dedicate and devote
his energies for the noble mission that
Jamiyah was established.
At a young age, Haji Abu Bakar had
the influence of the kampong gotongroyong spirit that he was fond of and
believed in the unity of the community
in achieving a common goal. Through
the years, it was with this kampong
spirit that Jamiyah bloomed and
expanded its services. It engaged
the partnership of the Ministries to
establish various welfare homes, a
halfway house and education services
for the community. Under his helm,
Free Legal Clinics, Welfare Clinics and
Food Ration distributions were set up
and these services catered to those in
need. Haji Abu Bakar had the vision for
Jamiyah to play a part in the progress
of the Ummah. With careful planning,
Education centres such as the
Jamiyah Education Centre, various
Student Care and Service Centres and
also Early Childhood Centres were set
up to encourage academic excellence.
Whatever was done, it was always
done with the same intention - for
the community. He was the engine
that galvanized and motivated the
community to unite and reach out to
those in need.
Haji Abu Bakar felt that it was inborn
in a human to accept the other
despite the differences in culture and
religion. He was heavily influenced by
the thoughts and actions myriad of
personalities that he interacted with
throughout his career as a Director
(Finance) in Leo Burnett Pte Ltd,
Muslim scholars and also the soldiers
While growing up, Haji Abu Bakar
was affected by the stories and news
he heard from his father through
attending weddings, religious and
kampong events. He had always been
very observant but more importantly,
he remembered the important values
that he had learned from the Muslim
world and of their heroes.
Haji Abu Bakar’s close relationship
with the pioneers of Jamiyah inspired
6
Datuk Syed Ibrahim Omar Alsagoff presenting a donation cheque from the World Muslim League to Abu Bakar Maidin
Voice of Islam
Tribute
Khamis, was his strong supporter
and always assisted in representing
him social engagements that he was
unable to personally attend. It helped
that they were volunteers at Jamiyah
Singapore because that allowed him
to at least see his wife and children. A
father of five, with nine grandchildren
and two great-grandchildren, he
had always ensured his full support
and encouragement in all their
educational endeavours.
Mr Lee Hsien Loong, Former Deputy Prime Minister, visits Jamiyah Islamic Centre
and prisoners during the Japanese
Occupation. He had a cosmopolitan
perspective and believed strongly in
fostering inter-religious harmony. In a
multiracial and religious Singapore,
harmony is key in ensuring stability
and growth of the nation. As a
member and eventually President
of the Inter-Religious Organisation
(IRO), Haji Abu Bakar promoted
causes for harmony within a society
by organizing programmes such
as the Multifaith Studies. Working
together with the various faith
organisations in Singapore, the IRO
convened representatives of 10
different religions to promote multi
faith harmony, human fellowship and
global peace.
Haji Abu Bakar came from a family
of strong religious and education
values. With a huge family, he grew
up assisting his father to sustain
their livelihood. Though his formal
education was interrupted due
to the Japanese Occupation, his
father strongly believed in the value
of education and Haji Abu Bakar
was often sent by his father to gain
knowledge through practical means.
His father realised Haji Abu Bakar’s
penchant for accounts and arranged
for his son to study the subject with a
well known friend of his. He attained
his knowledge in a tangential fashion,
picking up skills, and at the same
time complementing it with formal
classes and qualifications relevant
to the knowledge. He made full use
of opportunities given to him by his
early employers who recognized his
potential. His exposure to his bosses
and colleagues enriched his working
life. This made him even more capable
in carrying out his duties during his
career. He carried with him the same
outlook and stuck by it during the
40 years when he was President of
Jamiyah.
When Haji Abu Bakar took over the
leadership at the helm of Jamiyah,
he realised that the gargantuan task
of empowering Jamiyah and realising
the aspirations of its pioneers and
the Muslim community needed his
total sacrifice. He decided to allocate
whatever free time he had after office
hours to Jamiyah Singapore. This
led him to make sacrifices when it
came to time with the family. His
busy schedule caused him to spend
little time with the family. If his family
members wanted to see him, they had
to snatch time to do so at Jamiyah
Singapore.
All his sons: Abdul Malik, Abdul Latiff,
Mohamed Hasbi, and Mohamed Helmi
were active members of the Jamiyah
Youth Corps. His wife, Madam Zainab
He was firm in the belief that
experience is as important as
the paper qualifications. He was
constantly encouraging his family and
staff to maximize their potential. He
pushed them to acquire knowledge
and utilize their skills to the best of
their ability.
It was this balance which Haji
Abu Bakar often spoke about and
encouraged within the community.
He promoted the thought of a
balanced yet excellent education,
with no demarcation of secular
and spiritual knowledge. It was his
selfless nature and compassion
for the underprivileged that was
an inspiration for others to give
back to the community. He never
allowed physical pain to stop him
from working. His determination
and passion never failed to baffle the
people around him. He kept going,
not allowing fatigue or even uncertain
conditions to deter him from what he
wanted to achieve.
He took those challenges as cubaan or
a test from God. Haji Abu Bakar held
strong to the belief that the Almighty
would not test you more that you
could handle. In the 40 years that he
held office, it was his sheer love and
care for the community that propelled
Jamiyah to continuously uplift the
community.
Voice of Islam
7
Tribute
Milestones
Achievements and International Recognition
1968 – First Muslim Director in an MNC, Leo Burnett Pte Ltd Singapore
1970 – Elected as president of Jamiyah at 37th AGM
1982 – Certificate of High Appreciation for Service to Humanity from the
Secretary-General Dr Hamed Al-Ghabed of the Organisation of Islamic
Conference
1990 – Appointed to the board of Public Service Commission
1993 – 1st Exemplary Mother Award Ceremony, the Presidential shield
endorsed by the late former President, Dr Wee Kim Wee
1968
2000 – Honoured with the Pingat Bakti Masyarakat (Public Service Medal
Award) of the Government of Singapore
2001 – Appointed as member to the Malay Community Committee,
Chairperson in 2006 & 2011
2002 – Began a series of seminars for the region, in collaboration with ISESCO
2003 – First Chairman of Education Trust Fund, raised 10 million dollars to
provide financial subsidies to the poor and needy children of the lowincome Malay Muslim families for their pre-school education
1993
2004 – Berita Harian McDonald’s Achiever of the Year Award, in recognition
for his outstanding contribution in community service
– President, Indonesia-Singapore Friendship Association
– President of the Inter-Religious Organisation and during his time
initiated the Multifaith Studies Programme
– HindRatan Award given by the Non-Resident Indian Welfare Society,
given my Shri Shivraj Patil, Home Minister, Government of India
– Initiated the experiential learning ‘Touch of Harmony’ with Eduardo
Ramos Gomez, then Mexican Ambassador to Singapore to promote
harmony and peace
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Voice of Islam
2003
2004
Tribute
2006
2008
2008
2005 – Honoured with the Bintang Bakti Masyarakat (Public Service Star Award) of the Government of Singapore
– Meritorious Service Award, in recognition of Jamiyah’s role in the Fight Against Drug Abuse
2006 – ISESCO Award, First Class in recognition for his significant contribution towards promoting Islamic Cultural and
Civilisational values
– NYU established the Abu Bakar Maidin Annual Scholarship Award, to be awarded towards students who
demonstrate outstanding contribution towards promoting peace and humanitarian services
2007 – ISESCO appointed Hj Abu Bakar as Regional Coodinator for the Asia Pacific Region
– DMDI conferred the Hang Tuah Award
2008 – Anugerah Jasa Cemerlang presented by MUIS
– President’s Social Service Award
2009 – Darjah Kerabat Yang Termulia Sultan Mindanao (The Sultan Mindanao Honorable Royal Status) from the Secretary
General of Marawi City, Dato’ Dr Mohd Hassan Cana
2010 – IRO Award, in recognition for invaluable contribution towards Inter-faith Harmony
– Stepped down as President of Jamiyah Singapore, became the Executive Consultant of Jamiyah Singapore
– Distinguished Ambassador of Islam and Visionary Peace by Muslim Council of Ireland
2012 – The publication of his book Abu Bakar Maidin: Singapore’s Global Muslim
Voice of Islam
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2010
Tribute
The
Moments
of Abu Bakar Maidin
ABM interviewed by TV Singapore
upon appointment as MNC director
ABM always treasured his time with the family
PM Lee Kuan Yew visiting Jamiyah
ABM with then President Wee Kim Wee
ABM with then President S. R. Nathan and Dr
Abdulaziz Othman Altwaijri at 4th ISESCO Seminar
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Voice of Islam
ABM with children from Global Child Development Centre
Tribute
Group photo of Young Turks selling carnival
coupons
ABM received the Meritorious Service Award, presented to him
by PM Lee Hsien Loong, in recognition of Jamiyah’s role in
Singapore’s fight against drug abuse
Serving the elderly at Jamiyah Home for the Aged
(Darul Takrim)
ABM and Jamiyah officials at Vatican City
ABM with Interfaith Leaders
Dr Tan Cheng Bock at the handing of keys for the
Jamiyah Nursing Home (Darul Takrim)
Voice of Islam
11
Tribute
Remembering Abu Bakar Maidin
The visionary. The leader. The friend.
President of Singapore, Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam
Haji Abu Bakar devoted his life to public service and helping the less privileged. He served on
various national organizations to help the needy and was a pioneer in the development of social
services for the Malay-Muslim community. He was known for his humility and leadership and was a
role model for all Singaporeans.
Speaker Parliament, Mdm Halimah Yaacob
Haji Abu Bakar was a prominent figure who devoted his life not only for social work but also a
champion for inter-racial and inter-religious harmony in Singapore. I hope his dedication to his work
will be an inspiration for the younger generation to understand the true meaning of Social Work.
Prime Minister, Mr Lee Hsien Loong
Haji Abu Bakar was a stalwart of the Malay Community and devoted his life to the less privileged
in Singapore. He championed inter-religious harmony and forged a strong partnership between
Jamiyah and the Singapore Buddhist Lodge foundation to help the needy. Haji Abu Bakar also made
a significant contribution to racial harmony as President of the Inter-Religious Organisation.
Deputy Prime Minister Dr Teo Chee Hean
Haji Abu Bakar telah menyumbang banyak kepada Singapura menerusi kerja-kerja kemasyarakatan,
bukan sahaja dengan masyarakat Muslim setempat. Malah, beliau berjaya menjalin hubungan yang
kukuh bersama kumpulan beragama lain di sini. Beliau juga mempelopori pelbagai usaha bersama
kumpulan-kumpulan tersebut demi memenuhi kerperluan warga.
Minister in charge of Muslim Affairs, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim
Allahyarham bertungkus lumus demi kebaikan masyarakat dan sekali gus membantu
memperluaskan ruang bagi masyarakat kita. Saya rasa ini satu kehilangan bukan sahaja bagi
masyarakat kita, bahkan juga negara. Saya berharap legasi Allahyarham akan diteruskan oleh
generasi muda.
Former President of Singapore, Mr S. R. Nathan
Those of us who have worked with him would know the extent to which he was prepared to do what
he was doing without regard to his personal safety or health… (It) is hard to put down on record the
extent to which they were of help.
Abdulaziz Othman Al-Twaijri, Islamic Educational, (ISESCO)
With regard to this great loss, I convey, on behalf of myself and family of the Islamic Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) the heartfelt condolences and deep sympathy, praying
to Allah, may Allah Almighty shower the deceased with His mercy, forgiveness and blessings and
may you and your loved ones have patience and fortitude.
President, Singapore Buddhist Lodge, Lee Bock Guan
Dia abang saya. Saya adiknya. Kami berdua bermula pada 1970. Kami sangat rapat. Acara amal
saya dihadiri abang. Acara amal abang saya akan datang. Kami akan terus bekerjasama dengan
Jamiyah.
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Voice of Islam
Chronicles of Hajj
Chronicles of Hajj
The Past, Present,
and Future of Makkah
“
I had at last found that dimension where
human existence ceases to be held by the
gravitation of sensual and worldly desires,
where the soul is freed in an atmosphere of
obedience and peaceful submission to the
Divine Presence.”
- Yusuf Islam
In welcoming the holy month of Zulhijjah, VOI has compiled a series of features that gives you a
better insight of Hajj’s evolution over the years. From personal recollections of Hajj experiences
to differences between Hajj of the past and present, we hope to shed light on one of the most
meaningful rites in Islam.
Voice of Islam
13
Chronicles of Hajj
Al-Masjid Al-Haram, Makkah
Hajj And Modernity:
The Evolving Spirit Of Hajj
Every year, Muslim pilgrims from all
over the world congregate in the holy
city of Makkah to perform their Hajj.
Being one of the five pillars of Islam,
it is obligated upon any able-bodied
Muslim to perform Hajj.
During Zulhijjah, the holy cities of
Makkah and Medina will be packed
with pilgrims as they devote their time
to performing Hajj. The rites constitute
one of the pillars of Islam, one that is
incumbent upon all Muslims at least
once in their lifetime. Additionally,
these rites commemorate the historic
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Voice of Islam
events that took place during the
time of Prophet Ibrahim PBUH when
he submissively carried out the
commands of Allah SWT.
In its essence, the rites performed
during Hajj impart universal values
of humility and unity - from the
obligatory white garment worn by
both men and women (ihram) to the
focal point of direction (qiblah) when
it comes to praying - Hajj bears the
definitive goal of getting closer to the
Creator of the Universe.
by Asnira Hassan
Pilgrims flock all 1,200 sq km of the
city of Makkah, eager to partake in
the activities that will bring them a
step closer to God. Every step of the
religious rites - from the Tawaf, Sa’i,
at Al-Haram Mosque to the period
of self reflection at Arafah - are stark
reminders for pilgrims that they are
mere servants of God.
The sense of unity can be seen as
pilgrims collectively perform each
rite to the best of their ability while
defying the scorching desert sun. This
instils a sense of brotherhood - a bond
Chronicles of Hajj
that unites and identifies all of us as
Muslims. Dressed in their ihram, one
is not able to discern between the rich
or poor. Status and material wealth do
not matter because in the eyes of God,
everyone is the same.
Year in year out, the rising number
of Muslims around the world
explains the growing need for new
infrastructures that can hold millions
at one time. Today, better sanitation,
transportation,
communication
and technological advancements,
Makkah, has transformed into a city
of modernization. These high-end
facilities are constantly upgraded and
more new developments are currently
in progress, thanks to the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia for the vision and great
foresights to align once a desert to a
whole new city in line with world’s
popular city.
Makkah as it has always been, a
well known city mentioned in the
revealed books and ancient histories.
It is a place pagans, idol worshippers,
people of faith and even free thinker
goes to for a devoted prayers. Today,
the advancement of the city, for
some, have translated the once in a
lifetime spiritual journey into a family
holiday and a journey with fantasies
beyond spiritual enlightenment,
with conditions, the escalating cost
of travelling and administrative
compliance are met.
While clinging on the one and only
objective, for the pleasure of Allah
SWT, the division of the haves and
have nots are beginning to show
clear lines. Skyscrapers tower
over the congregation of people
circumambulating the Ka’abah. For
those who can afford - they have
the option of staying in luxurious 7
star hotels that offer a breathtaking
view of the city - while others settle
for cramped or even communal
accommodation.
Pilgrims who are in need of a caffeine
fix can always drop by Starbucks after
performing the Sa’i or even to the
nearby Topshop for an outfit change.
Global brands are increasingly
dominating the area, giving a whole
new meaning to “paradise”.
Entries to Makkah is a privilege
granted while multiple entries are
made possible for those with deep
pockets or exceptional ties.
These are the antithesis of what
Hajj is supposed to be. The spirit
of unity or attaining nearness to
God is diminishing with the rise of
commercialization within the city.
With all the structural, material
and technological advancements,
it is undeniable that Hajj has been
made safer
- road expansions,
newly constructed highways and the
revamping of holy sites - the city is able
to accommodate to the increasing
number of pilgrims year after year.
Mishaps such as road pile-ups,
structural collapse and human
stampedes that were previously
common
during
this
annual
congregation have been steadily on
the decline. The last major disaster
was reported in 2006 (Al Jazeera, Hajj:
Major Incidents, 2009).
While these improvements have
paved the way for better convenience
and personal safety, Muslim scholars
cannot help but argue that some
of them were unnecessary and at
times, at the cost of the destruction of
historical sites in the city.
No matter how much the landscape
has changed, what should remain
untouched is our intentions for
performing Hajj. While we applaud
any developments in the cause of
humanity which is a testimony of
Arabian first-class hospitality, pilgrims
should draw attention to improving
their faith to the best of their ability.
After all, it is meant to be a journey
of enlightenment and a golden
opportunity to take a step closer
towards God, Insya Allah.
Say, “Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and
my dying are for Allah , Lord of the worlds.”
- Quran [6:162]
Voice of Islam
15
Chronicles of Hajj
chronicles of hajj
Different Degrees
by Iylia Nurliyana
The spirit of Hajj
Of all the rites in the religion of
Islam, Hajj is the greatest in its
manifestation of unity and tawhid.
The beauty of Hajj is seen through
the brotherhood bond between men
from all walks of life. This concept
of unity essentially involves the
idea of universality with the coming
together of men in one place to
glorify and remember God.
Like every other journey that has a
point of destination in mind, Hajj
is a physical and spiritual journey
that one embarks on with the aim
of achieving betterment. Hence, the
performance of the various external
acts are futile if devoid of presence
of the heart. The purpose of these
acts is to draw a devotee’s attention
away from the worldly life he has
left behind. This is done through the
shedding of material attachments of
the heart so that the illumination of
God’s Light can enter.
Before one physically steps foot
in the holy land, the soul should
16
Voice of Islam
arrive first because Hajj is seen as
a journey of soul, not distance. The
soul is expected to grow from this
experience. When one enters Hajj, he
divorces himself from this world by
leaving behind his worldly affairs.
community, encouraging Muslims
to foster kinship with one another.
Furthermore, Eidul Adha is a public
holiday in Singapore, giving families
the opportunity to spend time
together.
Hajj is an evolution of soul in which
man removes the impurities from
his heart that have clung onto it. In
a place where all men are equal, he
humbles himself before the Lord as
he remains indifferent to the fortune
and misfortune of this world. The
external acts of worship should
mirror the journey his soul partakes
in getting closer to God. It is through
these different stages of servitude
that one comes back, anew.
The celebrations in Singapore
usually centre on of rite of Qurban,
the sacrifice of a livestock animal.
This is to commemorate Prophet
Ibrahim’s PBUH sacrifice of his
son Prophet Ismail PBUH. On the
morning of Hajj, Muslims congregate
at mosques islandwide to perform
Hajj prayers. After prayers, the men
gather and carry out the Qurban,
sacrificing livestock such as cow,
sheep or goat.
Hajj in Singapore
100 or more livestock per mosque.
These livestock usually come from
Australia and each mosque is
allocated 100 or more livestock for
sacrifice. The meat is then distributed
among the needy and less fortunate.
Hajj is celebrated differently in
Singapore. Despite not being
able to perform Hajj in that year,
Singaporeans Muslims still make
it a point to commemorate this
auspicious day. Through the various
activities, the spirit of gotong-royong
(teamwork) transcends layers of the
Despite the differences, Eidul Adha is
a rewarding celebration, no matter
where you are.
Chronicles of Hajj
chronicles of hajj
of Hajj
The daily prayer, Hajj,
circumambulation,
and the other rites are
aimed at remembering
Allah. But when there
is no remembrance of
Him in your heart, what
value will your oral
remembrance have?
- Prophet Muhammad PBUH
Voice of Islam
17
Chronicles of Hajj
Hajj M
by Farhana Aziz
Iman Wong, 55 years old
Chinese-Muslim convert
Hajj is a perennial dream for many
Muslims, and Muslim converts are
no different in wanting to pursue
the pilgrimage. For these converts,
visiting the place where Islam first
began gives them an injected boost
of faith, intertwined with their prior
knowledge on Prophet Ibrahim’s
PBUH Hajj rites origination that they
were familiar with.
The opportunity to perform Hajj
as a convert was “God’s calling to
me,” admitted Sister Iman Wong,
further expressing that it was indeed
an unforgettable experience. The
Singaporean Chinese was first
interested in learning about Islam after
reading a book called The Meaning of
the Glorious Qur’an by Muhammad
Pickthall. “My whole life, I have been
questioning God to show me the
righteous path of life… But it was only
after reading a translation excerpt
from Surah Al-Fatihah that it spoke
some sense into me,” she expressed,
“I’ll never forget those words ‘Show
us the straight path, The path of those
whom Thou hast favoured’.”
Sister Iman’s burning passion and
curiosity constantly grew day by day.
She had heaps of questions, but kept
receiving vague answers. Naturally,
she decided to seek professional
help and was met by the late Mr
Zaini, a volunteer teacher from Darul
Arqam Muslim Converts’ Association
Singapore. Under his tutelage, Sister
18
Voice of Islam
Iman slowly grew a deep connection
towards Islam. Alhamdulillah, at a
tender age of 21, she embraced Islam.
Getting closer to God did not end there.
An opportunity came knocking when
she was given the chance to perform
Hajj in 1994. With the blessings of her
family, she plucked the courage and
accepted ‘God’s invitation to visit the
Holy City’.
“Back then, there were no Hajj
preparatory classes. I had to seek
information from those who had been
to Hajj. Alhamdulillah, I was fortunate
to have friends and colleagues who
helped me, and walked me through
the rites that I was supposed to
do. I made sure that I had all the
supplications for the rites. I compiled
them into a book so that I could easily
refer to it as I went along. That was the
extent of the preparations I did before
I left for Jeddah,” revealed Sister Iman.
“When I first saw the majestic sight
of the Ka’bah, I was overwhelmed
with emotions. It was this huge black
cube right in front of me. And all that
I could say at that point of time was
‘Syukur Alhamdulillah’ repeatedly,”
she explained, “After years of praying
five times a day, I was finally praying
directly in front of the Ka’bah. It was
simply surreal.”
Sister Iman completed her Hajj trip
without any complications or health
restrictions. Alhamdulillah, she has
since shared her amazing experiences
with her Muslim friends - both converts
and born-Muslims. She prays that the
Almighty will extend His invitation
to every other converts out there.
The least she felt she could do was to
inspire people around her and Insya
Allah, they too may want to go on this
fascinating journey one day.
On top of that, she believes that every
Muslim should make it a point to see
Makkah with their own eyes, even if its
just once. Never let money be an issue
because when there’s a will, there’s a
way.
Her advice for any converts planning
to perform Hajj is: “Always prepare
in advance, keep fit by exercising
regularly, do thorough reviews of Hajj
rites, know your purpose of going
there and be spiritually motivated.
Chronicles of Hajj
Memories
Remember to seek the Almighty’s help for
anything and everything. Lastly, of course,
to be patient. You will be tested even in
the smallest of ways, so remember your
purpose when you’re there.”
Being able to see these traces of evidences
scattered all over Makkah and Medina
further proves a clearer connection with
the history of Islam. All the more, creating a
clearer conviction while exploring a renewed
sense of strength and determination. Of
course, Sister Iman would love to perform
Hajj again, Insya Allah.
As for now, she can only flip through the
crisp pages of her Hajj photo album and
relive those memories. It’s a tough longing
that she dreams of everyday, but always
thankful for being one of the lucky ones to
be invited to the Holy Land.
Remember to seek the Almighty’s
help for anything and everything.
Lastly, of course, to be patient. You
will be tested even in the smallest
of ways, so remember your purpose
when you’re there.”
Voice of Islam
19
Features
Mr K Shanmugam flanked by Prof (Adjunct) Dr. Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar, Mr Yahya Syed, Mr Noor Mohd Marican, Dr G. Raman
37 Anniversary of
Jamiyah Free Legal Clinic
th
In celebration of the 37th Anniversary of the Free Legal Clinic, Jamiyah
hosted a Hi-Tea on the 15th June 2013 at Ritz Carlton Millenia Singapore.
This event marked another important milestone for Jamiyah Singapore
as it was a testimony of tried and tested legal aid services provided by our
professional volunteer lawyers for members of the public.
20
Voice of Islam
Features
Guest of Honour Mr K Shanmugam with President of Jamiyah Prof (Adjunct) Dr. Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar and Special Advisor Tuan Haji Abu Bakar Maidin with the award winning
volunteer lawyers and officials of Jamiyah Singapore
The event was commemorated by
introducing I-Counsel, an online,
computer-aided legal help. A new
initiative to expand its legal services,
I-Counsel is yet another effort to bring
legal service closer to the community,
said Dr Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar,
President of Jamiyah Singapore in his
opening remarks.
Guest of Honour, Mr K Shanmugam,
Minister for Foreign Affairs and
Minister for Law, commended Tuan
Haji Abu Bakar Maidin, former
president of Jamiyah Singapore, and
Special Advisor of Jamiyah Singapore,
for having the foresight to initiate the
Free Legal Clinic where the poor and
needy are able to seek legal advice on
matters relating to law.
This service also serves as a platform
for lawyers to contribute back to the
society by volunteering to the clinic.
He also added that the Jamiyah Legal
Clinic has adjusted well to the evolving
laws and continues to deal with a
varied range of cases form inheritance
and insurance to defamation and
legality of Islamic marriages.
Pioneering this effort, Jamiyah is
an example that prompted many
organizations and firms to emulate.
Since its inception in 1976, the
Jamiyah Free Legal Clinic has served
over 11,200 clients seeking legal
advice from our volunteer lawyers.
Mr K Shanmugam handed over
certificates of appreciation and
plaques to 18 volunteer lawyers who
have volunteered for more than 10
years.
Cautioning the complex problem of
our fast-paced and inter-connected
world, Mr K Shanmugam called upon
more lawyers to assist charities,
non-profit organizations and social
enterprises to widen the scope of probono services.
This spirit of giving back to the
community is shared by the Chairman
of the Organizing Committee Dr G
Raman. In his words of gratitude at
the occasion, he welcomed new faces
to support the legal clinic to broaden
its services online.
The rousing applause of the 400
distinguished guests filled the
majestic hall as they networked over
excellent food and were entertained
by stage performances of Darul Ma’wa
residents and students at Jamiyah
Early Childhood Education Centres.
The volunteer lawyers at Jamiyah Singapore must
have given countless of hours to help people from all
walks of lives, cutting across races and religion. Their
spirit of humanity, togetherness and desire to assist is
truly tremendous.
- Mr K. Shanmugam
Voice of Islam
21
Features
Jamiyah
th
48 National Day
Observance Ceremony
“Stories of the past build up our identity and
add colors to the history of Singapore.”
- Mr Edwin Tong
22
Voice of Islam
Features
Guest of Honour Mr Edwin Tong with President and officials of Jamiyah Singapore
This year, National Day was
welcomed with waves of colors and
diversity. Held at its headquarters,
Jamiyah Singapore celebrated
Singapore’s 48th National Day
with its staff, family members,
students and supporters. Joining the
celebration was Mr Edwin Tong Chun
Fai, MP for Kallang Moulmein GRC.
As the audience rose to their feet
to recite the national pledge and
sing the national anthem, a wave of
patriotism swept across the hall.
This was followed by a performance
which included dances and a skit.
The skit featured young actors
‘Racheal’ and ‘Mr. Lim’ as they took
the audience through the different
cultures and values of a multiracial
society.
Speaking to the children at the
event, Professor (Adjunct) Dr Mohd
Hasbi, President of Jamiyah said,
“To all children who are present here
this morning, you may have heard
stories about Singapore from your
parents, grandparents and teachers.
Stories about Singapore’s past and
our aspirations for the future, and
about our struggles. When you grow
up, you will probably have your own
stories to tell. I hope it will be one
that is full of hope and promise.”
According to Dr Hasbi, the annual
National Day Observation is not
just an event to celebrate Singapore
National Day but more importantly,
to commemorate the hardship our
fathers and forefathers who went
through nation building and ensured
children were inculcated with the
right values.
In his brief speech, Mr Edwin Tong
further added that stories of the
past build up our identity and add
colors to the history of Singapore.
As one of the leading Malay/Muslim
organizations in Singapore, he
commended Jamiyah for being an
integral part of nation building and
for the good work over the last 40
years.
In addition, Mr Edwin reminded
everyone that the 48 years of
building a nation strong and free
is not a mere coincidence but
rather, sheer determination, sense
of sacrifice, spirit of resilience and
strong determination that has made
this little red dot prosper.
Parents witnessed their children’s
wittiness
as
they
answered
questions posted by the emcee and
displayed their acting skills in a play.
Guests were mesmerized by the
various performances and proficient
language skills demonstrated by the
children.
Indeed, Jamiyah Early Childhood
Education
centres
namely:
Jamiyah Kindergarten, Jamiyah
Childcare Centre and Global Child
Development Centre are quality
educational institutions that provide
a head start for young Singaporeans
regardless of race and religion.
Voice of Islam
23
Features
Raya
Away
From
Home
by Asnira Hassan
Nurul, 11, Ruby, 8
(Not their real names)
Residents at Jamiyah Children’s
Home (Darul Ma’wa)
For the past year, Nurul and her two
younger siblings, Sham and Ruby,
have been living at Darul Ma’wa. Due
to issues at home, all three of them
had to remain at Darul Ma’wa during
the recent Eid celebrations. For the
first time in their lives, they had to
celebrate Eid apart from their parents
and older siblings.
Being the middle child of five siblings,
Nurul has been the pillar of strength
for her siblings as they adjusted to
life away from the family. “It was
difficult at first, ‘cos Ruby kept crying
for Mak (mother) and Kakak (sister). I
always had to comfort her when she
cried at night. Sham does not cry so
much but he gets sad sometimes,”
Nurul recounted the first few months
in Darul Ma’wa. “I felt sad some
24
Voice of Islam
nights too, and sometimes I had
nightmares”.
Despite their ordeal, Nurul and Ruby
were upbeat and matter of fact
as they shared their feelings and
experiences living at the Home of
Bliss.
When asked about how Ramadhan
and Hari Raya was for her this year,
she brightened, “During Ramadhan,
we had visitors who came to buka
(break fast) with us. It is always
nice to have company, and there is
always a variety of food for us to eat.
I especially like it when we have kuihs
(Malay pastries) for buka.”
When asked about how Hari Raya
was this year, “Raya this year was
quite a celebration. We had visitors
who came to spend Hari Raya with
us. I was happy to be with my friends
here. We also got to eat lots of kuihs.
We had a spread of good food!”.
Ruby chimed in from where she was
sitting next to her sister, “But I still
missed Mak”.
For these siblings, no matter what
hardships they had to endure before
residing in Darul Ma’wa, they would
have rather spent it with their family
during Hari Raya.
When talking about their hopes for
the future, Nurul shared, “I want to
be a nurse. I had a nurse who took
care of me when I was in hospital and
she was very nice. I want to be like
her”. Not wanting to be left out, Ruby
added, “I want to be a policewoman,
so I can catch all the bad guys”.
At Darul Ma’wa, Nurul also shared
that she and her siblings do not have
to worry about being clothed or fed,
and while it has not been easy, they
are doing well. However, she did
admit that she hopes to be reunited
with the rest of her family again.
Events
Mdm Halimah Yacob
Hi-tea Felicitation
Mdm Halimah Yacob, Speaker of Parliament with President of Jamiyah and community & faith leaders
On Saturday, 2nd February 2013,
Jamiyah Singapore in co-operation
with Singapore Buddhist Lodge,
Hindu
Endowments
Board,
Singapore Taoist Federation and
Singapore Catholic Archdiocese
held a Felicitation Hi-Tea to
congratulate Mdm Halimah Yacob
on her appointment as Speaker of
Parliament.
Dr Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar in his
welcome address highlighted that
the appointment of Mdm Halimah
Yacob as Speaker of Parliament, a
very significant and crucial post,
shows that the system of meritocracy
in Singapore is respected. It also
“shows that there is no barrier to
achievement in life in Singapore.”
Dr Mohd Hasbi mentioned how
the news of the appointment was
welcomed by all Singaporeans
regardless of race or religion and
that it has “shown to the world that
we respect meritocracy and sincerity
as the hallmark emplacing people in
positions of importance”.
The ceremony was attended by more
than 150 guests including community
leaders and leaders of non-Muslim
organizations as well as diplomats
from the various diplomatic missions
in Singapore. Among the guests
present was the Parliamentary
Secretary, Ministry of Health &
Ministry of Transport, Associate
Professor Muhammad Faishal , Mufti
Dr Mohd Fatris Bakaram, Archbishop
Nicholas Chia and officials from the
Singapore Buddhist Lodge, Taoist
Federation Singapore and Hindu
Endowments Board.
During his speech, Dr Mohd Hasbi
expressed how Mdm Halimah has
done all Singaporeans proud and
hoped that there will be “many
more Halimahs for the benefit of the
community and our Nation.”
The event was graced by a Traditional
Malay Dance Performance ‘Tarian
Tualang Tiga’ and poetic Malay songs
as well as a tribute video by Jamiyah
Singapore to Mdm Halimah.
Voice of Islam
25
Events
Remembering
Nuzulul Quran
Appreciating the beauty of the Quran
Qurra at the blessed Nuzulul Quran event with President of Jamiyah
It was a special day when more
than 500 Muslims from as far as
neighbouring
countries
visited
Sultan Mosque on the 28th of July to
commemorate the revelation of the
Holy Quran which was believed to be
revealed in the month of Ramadhan.
Known as Nuzulul Quran or the
revelation of the Quran, Jamiyah
Singapore introduced new features to
the annual programme by including
26
Voice of Islam
Qasidah group performance by Sheikh
Mustofa Alwi and Islamic lecture by
Ustaz Nooh Gadut, Mufti of Johor on
the significance of the holy Quran.
Winners of the recent International
Quranic Recitation Competition or
Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran held in
Kuala Lumpur Malaysia and prominent
Quran scholars from Turkey were
invited to recite melodious recitation
of the holy Quran.
Among those who were present
included Syeikh Mostafa Sharqawy
from Egypt, Ustaz Dasrizal Bin
Marpint from Indonesia, Ustazah
Hajjah Rahmas from Malaysia, Syeikh
Huseyin Izqi from Turkey, Ustaz
Amirahman Abas from Malaysia, Ustaz
Nor Muhammad from Singapore,
Ustaz Dr Hj Muslim from Indonesia,
Sister Nur Adillah Bte Mohamed Rihat
from Singapore and Ustaz Ismail
Othman from Singapore.
Events
The event was aimed at motivating
the Muslim community to learn the art
of Quranic recitation, appreciate the
beauty of the Quran and inspire them
to learn further the messages inherent
in the Quran.
While acknowledging the growing
interest in pursuit of Quranic
knowledge
through
Islamic
educational centres locally, Mr
Khalid Hassan (Secretary General,
Jamiyah Singapore) urged all present
to continue learning as every step
towards Allah is an act of ibadah in his
welcome speech.
“
Syeikh Huseyin Izqi from Turkey
One of the audience, Ms
Faridah, 50 years old,
commended Jamiyah for its
initiative in inviting Quran
experts to town every year. A
strong proponent for lifelong
learning, she shared her
endeavours such as going to
as far as Kelantan to learn the
art of Quranic recitation from a
scholar there. She was especially
pleased to be able to meet
scholars and listened to their
melodious voice without having
to travel the long distance.
Ustaz Dasrizal Bin Marpint from Indonesia reciting the Quran to the audience
Voice of Islam
27
Events
Mr Desmond Lee, MP Jurong GRC , Grassroots Leader and Vice-chairperson of Jamiyah Children’s Home (Darul Ma’wa) Mr Mohd Hosni Abdul Malik
Celebrations Under The
Umbrella of Love
“I look at the children of Darul Ma’wa - they are disciplined, well-behaved and
respectful towards others.” - Mr Desmond Lee
It was a colourful day at Jamiyah’s
Children Home (Darul Ma’wa) when
children and youths from different
walks of life came down for a visit to
celebrate Hari Raya and National Day.
The joint celebration with youths from
the Jurong Youth Centre (JYC) and
preschoolers from Little Wings which
was held on 16th of August 2013, was
warmly received by Children at Darul
Ma’wa. Mr Desmond Lee, Member
of Parliament, Jurong GRC, was the
guest of Honour. Parents, teachers,
officials and guests from Planet Ads
and Design were also delighted to join
the celebration.
Aimed at fostering close ties with one
another, the celebration included Hari
Raya sing-alongs like Ewah Ewah Hari
28
Voice of Islam
Raya and Suasana Di Hari Raya. There
was also a Dikir Barat performance
in collaboration with 15 preschoolers
from Little Wings.
In a heartwarming speech, Superintendent of Darul Ma’wa, Mr Sophian
Kayat urged all present to count their
countless blessings. He highlighted on
how fortunate we are to have a home
and family to spend Hari Raya with
as compared to the children of Darul
Ma’wa.
The event wrapped up the day with
the singing of National Day songs like
We are Singapore and Count on me
Singapore.
Guest-of-Honour, Mr Desmond Lee
was moved and touched at seeing how
the children of Darul Ma’wa embraced
difficulties with strength. “I look at
the children of Darul Ma’wa - they
are disciplined, well-behaved and
respectful towards others. These are
clearly the right values that Jamiyah
has instilled in them. So you have a
good environment here and Jamiyah
is obviously taking good care of them,”
he said.
He was also pleased that the event
was an opportunity for youths to
take ownership of their community
and to give back to the society. “The
sadness of them not having their
family support is where we hope to fill
the gap through interaction with other
young people.”
Events
The Blessings of Ramadhan
His Excellency Andre Hadi (in blue) Indonesian Ambassador to Singapore at the Interfaith Iftar with (left to right) Mr Selvaraja, Mr George Peh, Mr Seng Han Thong, MP Ang Mo Kio
GRC, President of Jamiyah Prof (Adjunct) Dr Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar and Ven. Gunaratnae
In an effort to spread the blessings
of the holy month of Ramadhan,
Jamiyah Singapore held an interfaith
fundraising iftar event on the 19th of
July earlier this Ramadhan.
Held at the Royal Palm Restaurant,
the event was attended by people
of different races and religion.
Indonesian Ambassador to Singapore,
His Excellency Andre Hadi, Mr. Seng
Han Thong, Member of Parliament,
Ang Mo Kio GRC and several donors,
community leaders from different
faiths and volunteers of Jamiyah
graced the occasion with their
presence. The event centred around
Ramadhan, showing the nonMuslims how the holy month was an
opportunity for the sharing of food
and other necessities to foster kinship
and community ties.
Mr Andre Hadi was delighted and
pleased to be in the company of 200
guests at the cozy hall of Royal Palm
Restaurant. Speaking from his heart,
he expressed his appreciation over
Jamiyah’s energetic involvement in
community service particularly in
Singapore providing wide spectrum
of services to meet the different needs
of the community while touching
the hearts of people. He further
endorsed the prominent role played
by Jamiyah in promoting racial and
religious harmony in Singapore. He
also thanked all the sponsors for their
generosity in funding Jamiyah and
its activities on this wonderful event.
In his speech, Ambassador Andri
Hadi also touched on the values and
virtues behind fasting and called upon
everyone to improve people to people
contacts.
The Iftar event also witnessed the
launching of Maman’s new spiritual
album entitled Dzikr Alam. Maman has
so generously pledged a percentage
of the proceeds to support Jamiyah’s
Welfare and Educational services.
Commending this wonderful effort,
Professor Adjunct Dr Mohd Hasbi,
President of Jamiyah Singapore
reiterated the virtues of giving
and enlivening the flame of peace
exemplified by the late erudite
scholar and roving ambassador of
peace, Maulana Abdul Aleem Siddique
from Meerut, India who was also
the founder of the Inter Religious
Organization of Singapore and Johor
in 1949. Today Jamiyah has expanded
with over 25 different projects geared
towards addressing the need of the
various sections of the community
in the area of education, welfare,
health and community outreach
programmes.
Among those present were supporters
of Jamiyah like Ms Quek Soo Chin.
For the 53 year old, this was not the
first time celebrating Ramadhan with
Muslims in Singapore. “I love the
atmosphere of Ramadhan because it
promotes togetherness. You have your
pre-dawn meals and break your fast
together so that brings about family
time. This is not normally seen in
Chinese customs since many are busy
and have no time for family,” she said.
This Iftar has turned out to be a
memorable evening to remember
and relish for a long time to come.
Good food, good company on a good
evening, Alhamdulillah!
Voice of Islam
29
Events
A Helping Hand For The Needy
“
A friend in need
is a friend indeed.
That was the goal in mind when
donors from all walks of life came
together for the Food Distribution
organized by the Welfare Department
of Jamiyah Singapore on the 6th of July
2013. The bi-monthly initiative was
embraced by an estimated number of
400 recipients and warmly welcomed
by Guest-of-Honour, Dr Intan Azura
Mokhtar, Member of Parliament,
Ang Mo Kio GRC. She was greeted by
enthusiastic guests and beneficiaries
who gathered at the Al Malik Faisal
Hall of Jamiyah Singapore.
In her speech, the soft-spoken Dr Intan
Azura thanked all donors present for
‘sharing’ the food with the needy and
poor families. She encouraged the
community to work hand in hand to
assist the less fortunate as they are part
of our ‘big family’. She commended
Jamiyah for the contentious effort
over the past 40 years in uplifting
the community and wished for the
continuation of this noble work. She
called upon everyone to support this
project emphasizing its importance to
move ahead as a nation.
In his welcome speech, Mr. Airuddin
Tapah, Chairman of Jamiyah Welfare
Department, thanked the pillars
behind this project - Tuan Haji Abu
Bakar Maidin, founder of the project,
esteemed donors such as the Lee
Foundations, Singapore Buddhist
Lodge, Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho
Temple, Lions Club, Lotus Light
Charity Society (Singapore), Catholic
Welfare Services, Loyang Tua Pek
Kong Temple, Food Bank Singapore,
Islamic Religious Council of Singapore
(MUIS), various places of worship,
business houses, volunteers, Jamiyah
management and many others.
“We recognize that in spite of our
economic and social progress there
are certainly people who are lagging
behind and need the support of the
community to deliver them off their
difficulties. It is in this context that
Jamiyah Welfare ration distribution to
the poor and needy is a very significant
part of our outreach services,” said Mr
Airudin.
Dr Intan Azura, MP Ang Mo Kio GRC at the Food Distribution event
30
Voice of Islam
Events
(From left to right) Mr Naseer Ghani (SKML), Madam Moliah Hashim (Mendaki), Mr Mohd Hosni Abdul Malik (Jamiyah), Dr Isa Hassan (Jamiyah), Mr Raj Mohamad (SKML)
Engaging the
Young Leaders of Tomorrow
Jointly organized by Jamiyah
Singapore
and
Singapore
Kadayanallur Muslim League, the
Aspiring Young Muslim Leadership
Seminar 2013 is a follow up series
of Aspiring Young Entrepreneurs
Seminar held in February. 200 Muslim
youths from various organizations
gathered at Tampines East CC to
warmly discuss an important topic of
youths and leadership.
The seminar aims to inculcate
leadership quality and positive
attitude among young Muslims to
play positive roles and effectively
contribute for social, economic and
intellectual development of our
community and country in the two
parts of this seminar.
The first part witnessed lively sharing
of experiences by aspiring Muslim
youths from diverse background
namely:
1. Mr Shabir Alam Tabre, Director of
Ameali Music Production on Talent
Highway,
2. Dr Mohammed Nawab Osman,
Research Fellow, S. Rajaratnam School
of International Studies on Muslim
Youth Leadership in Community
Development,
3. Mr Raj Mohamed, Secretary, Gulf
Asia Shariah Compliant Investments
Association on Islamic Finance, the
Opportunity to Excel and
4. Ms Azeemah Mustafa, Project
Director, Community Development,
Jamiyah Singapore on Spotting
X Factor in Gen Y: Building Youth
Leadership.
Empowerment through Education
2. Mdm Moliah Hashim (CEO, Yayasan
Mendaki) on Engaging Youth for
Community Development
3. Hj Naseer Ghani JP (President,
Singapore Kadayanallur Muslim
League) on Muslim Youth: Challenges
and Opportunities
4. Mr Raj Mohamad on Enterprising
Muslim Youth
An open discussion by participants
and distinguished panel speakers
commenced shortly in the second half
of the seminar featuring:
She commended the youths for their
contributions towards the change
and assured everyone that there are
so much more that they can look
forward to. Mdm Halimah also shared
her confidence in faster advancement
provided youths play their roles.
1. Dr Isa Hassan, (Vice President-III,
Jamiyah Singapore) who spoke on
The Guest of Honour, respected
Speaker of Parliament, Mdm Halimah
Yacob advised youths to take pride
in tremendous progress made
particularly in the area of education,
housing and healthcare.
Voice of Islam
31
Women
Regional Women Forum On
Empowering Teenagers’ Self Identity
Dr Hazmilah Bte Hasan (UITM), Ms Azeemah (Jamiyah), Ustazah Zauwiyah, Ibu Putu Ervina (Komnas)
On March 7th 2013, Malacca State
Government through Dunia Melayu
Dunia Islam (DMDI) secretariat and
Women Bureau of DMDI invited
Jamiyah Singapore to participate
in its forum for women entitled:
“Peranan Wanita Dunia Melayu Dunia
Islam Dalam Pemerkasaan Jati Diri
Remaja” (Role of Women in the Malay
and Islamic World in Empowering
Teenagers’ Self Identity).
The forum was held at Seri
Negeri Auditorium, Malacca and
was attended by more than 400
women from various ministries,
non-governmental
organizations
in
Malacca,
international
representatives,
students
and
participants from Singapore, Malaysia
and Indonesia.
The objective of the forum was
to increase awareness among the
community on the importance of
women in nurturing, enhancing and
empowering adolescent identity.
32
Voice of Islam
Audiences
witnessed
heated
discussion presented by three
prominent
speakers:
Malaysian
freelance
Mursyidah
(religious
educator),
Ustazah
Zauwiyah
Hassan, Project Director (Community
Development) of Jamiyah Singapore,
Ms Azeemah Mustafa, and Indonesian
Head of Komnas Hak Wanita dan
Anak-Anak (Head of National
Commission of Women and Children
Rights) Tanjung Pinang, Ibu Putu
Ervina.
Panelists were given one question per
round of six followed by a Question
and Answer session. Topics that were
discussed at length ranged from the
role of Muslim women in developing
teenagers’ self-identity, the steps
women can take to enhance their
own self-identity on their children to
women’s involvement in teenagers
grooming years as an important
phase in complex nation building
process. The event was officially
closed by Y.A.B Datuk Seri Hj Mohd
Ali Mohd Rustam, President of DMDI.
Other guests of honour, Dr Mohd
Hasbi Abu Bakar and his team from
Singapore as well as representatives
from Indonesia were present at the
forum.
Prior to the certificate and souvenir
presentation to all speakers, Y.A.B
Datuk Seri Hj Mohd Ali Rustam
expressed his thanks to the
continuous support of Jamiyah
Singapore and friends from both
Singapore and Indonesia.
He stated his desire to bring this
partnership to another level, one
that would benefit the regional
community.
The forum was indeed a significant
networking platform for regional
women leaders to gather, discuss and
empower one another.
Women
Heaven Lies Beneath Her Feet
Exemplary Mother Award (Pre-event)
In its 21st year, Jamiyah will once
again be organising the Exemplary
Mother Award. Since 1993, this
prestigious award, with the shield first
endorsed by the late former President,
Dr Wee Kim Wee, was to acknowledge
and celebrate the achievement of
exemplary mothers, honouring their
perseverance in enduring hardship
and sacrifices in raising their children.
These mothers toiled in the early years
of their life, to provide a better future
for their children, especially in terms
of education and well - being.
After successfully completing 12
rounds in 2004, the shield was
honourably replaced by a shield from
the former President Mr S. R Nathan.
The annual Exemplary Mother Awards
event is Jamiyah’s pursuit to identify
and glorify such mothers who have
done supreme sacrifices to bring up
their children against trying personal
circumstances whilst volunteering
community service during their free
time.
This year, Exemplary Mother Award
this year saw its final round of judging
on the 20th August 2013.
Held at Jamiyah Singapore, 10 finalists
were selected and were shortlisted
for an interview by the distinguished
panel of judges. Some of the finalists
were accompanied by family members
to show their support. Finalists were
interviewed intensively as they were
called into the interview room one by
one.
7. Mdm Saidah Mohamed, Director,
Finance and Office Admin, Ministry of
Law
The panel of judges comprised of 10
women from esteemed backgrounds.
9. Mdm Zuraidah Ibrahim, Deputy
Editor, The Straits Times
They are:
1. Mrs Yu Foo Yee Shoon, Former
Minister of State, MCYS
10. Mdm Jenny Yeo, Remiscier, OCBC
Securities
2. Dr Della Lee, Founder of DS Lee
Foundation
3. Mdm Claire Chiang, Senior Vice
President, Banyan Tree Holdings
and Co-Founder of Banyan Tree
Foundation
4. Dr Bibi Jan Ayyub, Counselor Cedar
Primary School
5. Mdm Mary Hoe Tan, Director, HoeTan Pte Ltd
6. Mdm Sarojini Padmanathan,
Senior Director, Singapore Indian
Development Association
8. Mdm Zakiah Halim, Senior Vice
President, Malay, Indian and Expat
Programming, Mediacorp Ltd
One of the judges, Mdm Claire
Chiang pointed out on how she
would measure the success of a
mother, “A woman who looks after
the children by giving them enough
space to explore the world on their
own terms yet always there to pick
them up unconditionally even if they
fail or by her own exemplary lifestyle,
demonstrates to the children what
values they can carry on in life and
living with competence to forever
learn and change.”
The winner of this prestigious award
will be announced on the 29th of
September at the Ritz Carlton Millenia.
Panel of judges for EMA 2013
Voice of Islam
33
Education
Ms Aisah Osman, Head of Department (Mathematics) at Meridian Primary School
Adiputra Abd Ghani, Mathematics Genius
‘Eye’ Witness
A Mathematics Genius
Women and Family Department of
Jamiyah Singapore held its maiden
programme for the year, I am A Genius:
Head Start in Mathematics Workshop,
on Sunday 31st of March 2013 at
Sultan Mosque auditorium. The
workshop is a two-pronged approach
towards creating excitement for
children to love Mathematics and
for parents to enhance their skills in
imparting the knowledge of numbers
amongst their children.
President of Jamiyah Prof (Adjunct)
Dr Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar in his
welcoming speech, thanked the Guest
of Honour, Mr Zainal Sapari, Member
Parliament,
Pasir
Ris-Punggol
34
Voice of Islam
GRC and the special speakers, Ms
Aisah Osman, Head of Department
(Mathematics) at Meridian Primary
School and Mr Adiputra Abd Ghani,
Malaysian Mathematics Genius, for
sparing their time on the Sunday
morning for a noble cause.
He acknowledged the Trends
International
survey
ranking
Singaporean pupils as the best in the
world in Mathematics and second
best in Science. However, he added
that there are significant number of
Malay students who have difficulty in
scoring high grades in Mathematics.
“Attributing
the
importance
of
Mathematics and Science to excel
academically,
this
workshop,
therefore, is part of Jamiyah’s
effort to enhance the capability of
Singapore children in their handling
of Mathematics as a subject of study,”
added Dr Mohd Hasbi. This workshop
is a prelude to more upcoming
Mathematics series.
Mr Zainal Sapari, the Guest of Honour,
commended Jamiyah Singapore
for the foresight in organizing this
Mathematics workshop in Singapore.
He concurred with Dr Mohd Hasbi
on the importance of Mathematics
to climb academic ladders for better
social mobility. He encouraged
Education
“Attributing the
importance of
Mathematics and
Science to excel
academically, this
workshop, therefore,
is part of Jamiyah’s
effort to enhance
the capability of
Singapore children
in their handling of
Mathematics as a
subject of study.”
- Prof (Adjunct) Dr Mohd Hasbi
parents and children to be proactive in
their learning and diligent in the Math
practices at home.
Mathematical formulae and were
taught to count from one to trillion in
less than a minute by Adiputra.
At the workshop, parents were
introduced to the Concrete, Pictorial
and Abstract (C-P-A) approach in
developing strong mathematical
concept to children. Tips were also
shared with the parents to better
understand methods such as model
drawing so as to be able to better
support their children in Mathematics.
Strategies were shared in the teaching
and understanding of word problems.
Ms Aisah Osman, who is also the
Vice Chairperson of Jamiyah Women
and Family Department shared
amongst others riddles, songs and
pictures in her lively presentation.
She stressed that parent’s attitude
towards Mathematics will influence
the mindset of children in learning
Mathematics.
Adiputra has formulated over 200
formulae by the age of 10 and published
a book entitled: ‘Seni Matematik
Islam’ (Islamic Mathematical Arts) at
the age of 11. Charming both parents
and children, Adiputra solved complex
mathematical questions in less
than half a minute and memorized
15 lines of numbers (15 randomly
selected numbers per line) from one
end to another in less than a minute.
He concluded his presentation with
reverse recitation of the same 15 lines
of numbers without even looking at it!
The second half of the workshop
was presented by the Maths genius
Adiputra Abd Ghani. Children in the
audience were exposed to 10 new
Five lucky children walked away
with bundle of gifts for quickly and
accurately
answering
questions
posted. Judging from the amount of
participation and enthusiastic hands
up during the interactive session,
indeed this workshop is one of its
kind, one that triggers Mathematical
excitement!
The audience listened attentively as Mr Adiputra wows them with his mathematical skills
Voice of Islam
35
Education
Mr Zaky Mohamad, MP Choa Chu Kang GRC with award winners
Striving for
Islamic Excellence
On May 4th 2013, Jamiyah Education
Centre celebrated the achievements
of students in its weekend religious
classes (Madrasah) who performed
well in the year end examination 2012.
The Guest of Honour for the inaugural
ceremony was Mr Zaqy Mohamad,
Member of Parliament for Choa Chu
Kang GRC.
Expressing his gratitude to Jamiyah
Singapore for its excellent service
to the community, Mr Zaqy
acknowledged the greater support
of the Muslim community for
religious classes run by Jamiyah.
He further went on to commend the
management of Jamiyah Education
Centre for cultivating the love of Islam
amongst youngsters. He urged all
parents to nurture their young with
care, imbuing Islamic knowledge as
well as practices so as to guide them
36
Voice of Islam
in achieving excellence. Strong moral
and religious values are important to
cushion the challenges and hardship
in life, he added.
Mr Zaqy concluded his speech with
a special mention of this year’s
recipient for the Outstanding Student
Award (Primary Level), Nur Sarah
Ofina Bte Sofian. The 11-year-old
was among the top 3 in her level for
three consecutive years. The eldest
of three was nominated for her lovely
personality and displayed good
akhlaq when interacting with others.
Truly, Nur Sarah is an inspiration for
other students to emulate.
Jamiyah Education Centre provides
religious classes relevant to the
needs of the Muslim community. Each
year, the centre strives to introduce
fresh initiatives significant to meet
the changing landscape of Islamic
Education and the community
profile. This year, Jamiyah Education
Centre introduced the Outstanding
Student Award for Primary Level to
complement the Outstanding Student
Award for Secondary Level that was
announced last year.
Jamiyah Education Centre also took
the opportunity to announce the
establishment of an Islamic college.
In his speech, Mr Mohd Yunos Mohd
Shariff, Vice President II of Jamiyah
Singapore, described preparations
made towards the establishment of
Islamic College. The college will offer
accredited Islamic higher learning
programmes with various reputable
Islamic educational institutions such
as Kolej Universiti Islam Melaka and
Quran Academy Canada.
Education
A Glimpse With
Outstanding
Student Of The Year
Outstanding student Nur Sarah Ofina with Mr Zaky Mohamad
Jamiyah Education Centre Best
Student of the year 2012, Nur Sarah
Ofina Bt Sofian, shares with VOI
team her secret towards becoming
an outstanding student in the recent
Haflah Graduation Ceremony held on
the 4th of May 2013.
VOI team: Tell us more about yourself?
Nur Sarah: My name is Nur Sarah Ofina Bt Sofian. I am 12
years old, the eldest in a family of five. My siblings are Nur
Meliany, 11 years old and Nur Marsyafiqa, 7 years old. My
father works for SMRT, ferrying passengers every day. My
mother is a housewife. I study at Griffiths Primary.
VOI team: What bring about this success, was it your
passion in religious study?
Nur Sarah: I didn’t expect to be conferred with this
prestigious award. I am simply doing my best in all that
I do. I like Islamic history and Mathematics. I have been
in Jamiyah Education Centre (JEC) since primary 1. The
ustazs and ustazahs, especially Ustaz Saifuddin, are great
and that keeps me coming to JEC.
VOI team: What will you do with the gift, iPad Mini?
Nur Sarah: Of course, I will put the iPad to good use. It’s
my first electronic gadget.
VOI team: Who helped you with your studies?
Nur Sarah: My mother and father are my teachers. My
mother ensures that I manage my time wisely and will
accompany me till late to ensure I get to complete my
homework. My father, on the other hand, will teach me
the subject itself ensuring that I am ahead of the lessons
before it is taught by my teachers. We have a daily
timetable. My father will give my siblings and I two-hour
lessons for three times a week.
VOI team: What is your hobby and ambition?
Nur Sarah: I like to read and play computer. My ambition is
to be a Mathematics teacher. Mr Sheikh, my Mathematics
teacher is my inspiration. He likes to make the class lively
and that triggers my love for Mathematics.
VOI team: Who is your role model?
Nur Sarah: My mother is my role model. She spends
most of her time with me. She fetches me to school,
accompanies me at home, assists me in my homework
and teaches me invaluable lessons of life. Although she
can be fierce and strict at times, I truly appreciate it as
it helps to discipline me and ensures that I get my daily
schedule running accordingly.
VOI team: What is your word of advice for other
students out there?
Nur Sarah: Study hard, make your parents proud of you.
Voice of Islam
37
Education
The Quran Festival
The Mahrajan Al- Quran, or the
Quran Festival was held on 7 July
2013. Mr Hawazi Daipi, Senior
Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of
Education, and Ministry of Manpower,
was the guest of honour for the event
conducted at Al-Malik Faisal Hall
at the Jamiyah Islamic Centre. This
was a festival that had something to
offer for everyone who were present.
From the young storyteller to those
who witnessed the official agreement
of the Mass Khatamul Quran, the
festivital was a good start to usher in
the blessed month of Ramadhan.
38
Voice of Islam
Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Jamiyah Singapore with
International Islamic College and Institute Agama Islam Negeri (IAIN) Sumatera Utara
Education
In his speech, Mr Hawazi Daipi, commended Jamiyah’s leadership for the various unique activities aimed to enhance the
community’s spiritual. He cited the government’s foray into introducing character and citizenship building in the new
curriculum next year, and recommended Jamiyah to continue to stay relevant in the community building through their
multifarious programmes.
Memorandum
of Understanding
Competitions for the
Young & Old
The main event of the Mahrajan
Al-Quran was the formal tripartite
signing of the Memorandum of
Understanding between Jamiyah
Singapore with International Islamic
College and Institute Agama Islam
Negeri (IAIN) Sumatera Utara. This
was to commemorate the new record
of Mass Khatamul Quran. Mass
Khatamul Quran, or the congregation
of the completion of the recitation of
the Al-Quran, started the week before
this event and was concluded on
this occasion. The congregation saw
100 people gathering to complete
reading the Quran together. It is with
hopes that through the signing of the
MOUs, JEC has expanded to establish
and strengthen relations with
neighbouring Islamic Institutions,
all for the benefit of the local Muslim
community.
This event was also a platform for
young Muslims to showcase their
talents in Da’ie and Tahfiz and also
storytelling. As young Muslims, the
participants were eager to display
their knowledge and talent. These
participants are the testament of
the achievement and objective of
the Jamiyah Education Centre to
impart religious knowledge in the
young, cultivate their love towards
the religion, God and His Prophet
PBUH. Through the organization
of such activities, the children are
given the opportunity to widen their
thinking horizon and be proactive and
knowledgeable Muslims.
And that these establishment of
relations will bring about future
collaborations for the benefit of the
Muslim society in the region.
Adik Haniff, champion of the AdikAdikku competition was also there,
and shared a few words with the
audience present. For the mature
participants, there was also a Tilawati
Competition, or the Quran Recitation
Competition, for those who are
passionate about the Al Quran.
Launch of LQ48 App
The finale of the festival was the
launch of the LQ48 app. As part of
Jamiyah’s plan to extend and expand
its services towards the community,
the LQ48 app was launched, targeting
the community which is growing
increasingly IT savvy. The objective of
this app is for users with smart phones
or portable devices, to be able to
have the convenience of learning the
Al-Quran with Tajwid, anywhere they
may be.
This initiative of incorporating
technology and religion is in line with
Jamiyah Education Centre’s vision
and mission of building progressive
Muslims, ready for the global world.
Mr Hawazi also added that the use of
technology such as apps application
in learning the Quran should be
emulated and is the way forward for
all Malay Muslim organizations.
Voice of Islam
39
Photo Diary
PHOTO DIARY
I Love My Family: A Multi-faith Family Day Ev
Aspiring Young Entrepreneurs Seminar
Organized by Jamiyah Singapore
Speaker of Parliament, the Honourable
Mdm Halimah Yacob Visits Jamiyah’s
Headquarters
40
Voice of Islam
Photo Diary
1st / 2ND Quarter 2013
vent
Some 1,500 visitors came down to East Coast Park in light of promoting
values of family bonding, encouraging healthy lifestyles and creating
friendships that goes beyond race, religion and nationality
Maulidur Rasul 1434H
The birthday celebration of our beloved
Prophet Muhammad PBUH was largely
welcomed by 5,000 Muslims at Bedok Stadium
Jamiyah’s Global Child Development
Centre Food Ration Distribution
Voice of Islam
41
Photo Diary
PHOTO DIARY
Award Presentation Ceremony at Singapor
India Muslim leader Visit
Prof K. M. Kadar Mohideen, former Member
of Parliament, India and National General
Secretary of Indian Union Muslim League with
Tuan Haji Abu Bakar Maidin, Special Advisor of
Jamiyah during his visit
Ustaz Usama Canon Lecture at MAX Atria
Hailing from the States, Ustaz Usama held
a public lecture that covers an intimate yet
intriguing topic titled ‘Love in the Light of
Prophecy’
42
Voice of Islam
Shaykh Hisham Kabbani Visits jamiyah chil
re Buddhist Lodge
Photo Diary
Dr H. M. Saleem together with MP Indranee Rajah awarding a
recipient of the Bursary Award at Singapore Buddhist Lodge
ldren’s home (Darul Ma’wa)
Melaka Gallery Official Opening
in Jakarta
Melaka tourism acquires creativity boost with
the newly launched Gallery in Jakarta, led by
Datuk Seri Haji Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam
Voice of Islam
43
Photo Diary
PHOTO DIARY
Visit from People’s Association
JAMIYAH OFFICIALS CELEBRATING Chinese Ne
Visit from International Islamic
College Malaysia
Sport competition at Kolej Universiti
islam melaka
Team Jamiyah Singapore smiling proudly for
the camera as they came in first place
44
Voice of Islam
Photo Diary
Mr Nah Juay Hng, Group Director from People’s Association, together
with his other officials visit Jamiyah Headquarters
ew Year at singapore buddhist lodge
Visit from indonesian Students
to Jamiyah Education Centre
Voice of Islam
45
Education
Ms Sim Ann the then Senior Parliamentary Secretary with award recipient Mohamed Danish Amsyar and President and officials of Jamiyah
Lend-A-Hand
Graduation Ceremony
It was certainly a proud and happy
moment for Mohamed Danish Amsyar
Bin Ali Amran at Jamiyah’s Lend-A
Hand 2012 Certificate Presentation
Ceremony held on Sunday, 3rd
February 2013.
He was amongst the 33 students who
were in the three-month intensive
tuition programme for students
taking their Primary School Leaving
Examinations (PSLE), managed by
Jamiyah Singapore through JBS
International College, and financially
supported by Linklaters Singapore.
He received a special mention by the
Guest of Honour at the event, Ms Sim
Ann, the then Senior Parliamentary
Secretary, Ministry of Communications
and Information and Ministry of
Education who commended him and
other participants for having achieved
significant improvement through the
46
Voice of Islam
coaching in the programme and of
course, through their hard work and
diligence. After the intensive English
and Science sessions, Mohamed
Danish, who is now in Macpherson
Secondary, raised his English
grade from D to B. He expressed
his gratefulness to the teachers,
administrators and sponsors of
Project Lend-A-Hand for their support.
Mr Mohd Hosni Abdul Malik, Director,
Project Lend-A-Hand in his speech,
elaborated on how the programme
which is in its 4th year, has helped
about 150 needy students to graduate
with better PSLE scores. With a
small teacher-student ratio and its
thrice weekly intensive sessions per
subject, it has enabled students to
achieve academic improvement, and
also progress to secondary school
with profound confidence that is –
good grades are within reach, if they
maximize the relevant resources and
study hard.
Students attend the classes free of
charge, thanks to the kind donation of
Linklaters Singapore who believes in
the importance of education as a key
to success, and are passionate about
supporting students to achieve their
maximum potential. Mr Mohd Hosni
Abdul Malik also thanked Linklaters
Singapore for their generous support
as well as teachers, volunteers
and staff who were involved in the
programme.
The event included a presentation
of Certificate of Participation to
students by Ms Sim Ann and Letter
of Appreciation to the teachers by Dr
Mohd Hasbi , President of Jamiyah
Singapore.
Dakwah
Kasih Ibu Membawa
Ke Syurga
oleh Mohd Ashik
Bayangkanlah betapa susahnya
ibu mengandung selama 9 bulan 9
hari, keperitan melahirkan anak-anak
dan menyusukan serta membesarkan
mereka.
Sungguh besar jasa dan pengorbanan
ibu, membesar, mendidik dan
memelihara anaknya, dengan penuh
rasa
tanggungjawab,
sehingga
anaknya menjadi manusia yang
berguna kepada masyarakat dan
negara. Mereka dengan penuh
rasa tanggungjawab
membesar,
mendidik dan
memelihara anaknya hingga menjadi
manusia yang berguna kepada
masyarakat dan negara.
Ibu sewajarnya diberikan kasih
sayang dan dihormati, lebih-lebih
lagi anak-anak yang telah diasuh dan
dididik dengan nilai-nilai keagamaan.
Tunjukkanlah rasa terima kasih
dengan selalu berbuat baik dan
tidak menentang segala suruhannya,
jaga hatinya jangan sampai melukai
serta peliharalah ibu ketika usianya
mencapai senja.
Allah
SWT
sangat
memuliakan
dan
meninggikan
darjat
ibu,
sehingga
menjadi
penentu bagi
keredaan dan
kemurkaanNya. Rasulullah s.a.w.
pernah bersabda yang bermaksud:
“Keredaan Allah terletak pada
keredaan ibu bapa dan kemurkaan
Allah pula terletak pada kemurkaan
ibu bapanya.” (Hadis riwayat atTirmizi dan Hakim).
Terdapat beberapa amalan yang
boleh dilakukan oleh seorang anak
untuk kedua ibu bapanya yang telah
meninggal dunia iaitu:
1. Sembahyangkan untuk mereka.
2. Mohon keampunan untuk mereka.
3. Laksanakan wasiat yang mereka
tinggalkan.
4. Eratkanlah silaturahim dengan
orang-orang yang mereka lakukan
5. Muliakanlah teman-teman mereka.
6. Doakan kepada mereka. (Setiap
selepas solat fardu berdoalah kepada
Allah SWT untuk kedua ibu bapa
supaya Allah SWT mengampunkan
semua dosa-dosa mereka)
Daripada Abdullah bin ‘Amru al-‘As
katanya, “Seorang lelaki menghadap
Rasulullah
lalu
berkata,
“Aku mengikat
janji dengan
engkau
untuk
turut
Voice of Islam
47
Dakwah
serta berhijrah dan berjuang (jihad)
untuk menuntut ganjaran pahala
daripada Allah Taala”.
dan peliharaanmu, maka janganlah
engkau berkata kepada mereka
(sebarang perkataan kasar) sekalipun
perkataan “Ah”, dan janganlah engkau
menengking menyergah mereka,
tetapi katakanlah kepada mereka
perkataan yang mulia (yang bersopan
santun).
Rasulullah bertanya, “Adakah salah
seorang orang tuamu masih hidup?”
Jawabnya, “Ya, bahkan kedua-duanya
masih hidup”.
Rasulullah bertanya lagi, “Engkau
mahukah menuntut pahala daripada
Allah Taala?”
Jawabnya, “Ya”.
Kata Rasulullah, “Pulanglah kepada
kedua-dua ibu bapamu dan berbuat
baiklah (berbaktilah) kepada keduaduanya”.
(Hadis Riwayat Bukhari dan Muslim)
Jelaslah, menjaga dan berbakti
kepada kedua-dua ibu bapa akan
mendapat ganjaran pahala daripada
Allah SWT. Islam menyeru umatnya
supaya menjaga ibu bapa mereka
dengan sebaik-baiknya.
Bersempena Hari Ibu yang disambut
masyarakat dunia sehari dalam
tahun, perlukah kita sebagai orang
Islam untuk menyambutnya?
Di dalam Islam, setiap hari ialah hari
ibu. Ibu orang yang paling banyak
berjasa kepada kita dan insan yang
sangat mulia di mata Allah SWT. kita
dituntut untuk menghormati ibu
bapa kita setiap masa dan ketika.
Bukannya hanya terhad kepada harihari tertentu sahaja seperti pada hari
ibu atau hari bapa.
Firman Allah SWT di dalam surah al
Isra ayat 23 - 24: “Tuhanmu telah
perintahkan, supaya engkau tidak
menyembah melainkan kepadaNya
semata-mata, dan hendaklah engkau
berbuat baik kepada ibu bapa.”
Jika salah seorang dari keduanya,
atau kedua-duanya sekali, sampai
kepada umur tua dalam jagaan
48
Voice of Islam
Wahai Tuhanku!
Cucurilah
rahmat kepada
mereka berdua
sebagaimana
mereka telah
mencurahkan
kasih sayangnya
memelihara
dan mendidikku
semasa kecil.
(Al-Israa’, 24)
Hendaklah engkau merendah diri
kepada keduanya kerana belas
kasihan dan kasih sayangmu,
dan doakanlah (untuk mereka,
dengan berkata): “Wahai Tuhanku!
Cucurilah rahmat kepada mereka
berdua sebagaimana mereka telah
mencurahkan
kasih
sayangnya
memelihara dan mendidikku semasa
kecil.”
Untuk menjadi anak yang soleh dan
solehah, kita semestinya berbakti
sebanyak terdaya kepada kedua ibu
dan bapa. Janganlah menjadi anak
yang derhaka, sesungguhnya anak
yang derhaka tidak akan mencium
bau Syurga.
Firman Allah SWT yang bermaksud :
“Kami wajibkan manusia berbuat
baik kepada kedua ibu bapanya;
ibunya telah mengandungnya dengan
menanggung
kelemahan
demi
kelemahan (dari awal mengandung
hingga akhir menyusunya) dan
tempoh menceraikan susunya ialah
dalam masa dua tahun; (dengan yang
demikian) bersyukurlah kepada-Ku
dan kepada kedua ibu bapamu; dan
(ingatlah), kepada Akulah jua tempat
kembali (untuk menerima balasan).”
(Surah al-Luqman ayat 14)
Hargailah jasa dan pengorbanan
ibu kita selagi mereka masih hidup.
Jagalah hati mereka. Perbuatan baik
kita kepada mereka akan menjadi
pemangkin kepada kebahagiaan di
dunia dan akhirat.
Raihlah keredaan dan doa mereka
kerana doa ibu bapa membawa ke
syurga.
Dakwah
Ulasan Buku Rangkaian
Pantun Dakwah
Penerbitan Terbaru Jamiyah Singapura:
RANGKAIAN PANTUN DAKWAH (SIRI 1)
Ramadhan Al-Mubarak: Rebutlah
Kelebihannya (SIRI 2)
Buat julung-julung
kalinya, Jamiyah
Singapura menerbitkan
buku Rangkaian Pantun
Dakwah khusus buat
semua lapisan masyarakat
Islam Singapura baik
golongan remaja
mahupun dewasa. Usaha
melestarikan agama
Islam dan budaya Melayu
menerusi penerbitan
koleksi Pantun Dakwah ini
merupakan yang pertama
di Singapura.
Selama ini Jamiyah Singapura
telah banyak menghasilkan bukubuku panduan berupa nasihat dan
bimbingan agama. Kali ini Jamiyah
menerbitkan buku yang berjudul
Rangkaian Pantun Dakwah bertujuan
menyampaikan mesej-mesej dakwah
secara berpantun untuk mendekati
masyarakat
dengan
berhemah,
menerapkan nilai-nilai bahasa dan
budaya serta menambah khazanah
penerbitan Jamiyah.
Buku pantun dakwah siri 1 setebal 85
mukasurat, memuatkan 130 pantun
tentang keputeraan junjungan besar
kita, Nabi Muhammad s.a.w., perkaraperkara sekitar ibadah haji, galakkan
bersedekah, berzakat, pembentukan
akhlak dan amalan-amalan yang baik
sebagai orang Islam. Pantun-pantun
ini terbahagi kepada 2 kategori iaitu
Pantun Bimbingan dan Nasihat dan
Pantun Umum.
bulan yang amat dinanti-nantikan ini.
Pantun-pantun ini melengkapi teksteks ringkas lagi padat yang disiapkan
oleh sekumpulan asatizah Jamiyah.
Buku pantun dakwah siri 2, bertajuk:
Ramadhan Al Mubarak: Rebutlah
Kelebihannya, setebal 82 mukasurat
pula
memuatkan
85
pantun
berkenaan bulan mulia Ramadhan
iaitu nama-namanya, kelebihan
dan keistimewaannya, hikmahnya,
kewajipan yang dituntut ke atas
umat Islam bersama kehadiran bulan
suci ini, cara menghormati Bulan
Ramadhan, perkara-perkara sunnah
dan makruh dilakukan pada bulan
ini, cara menunaikan zakat fitrah,
cara menyambut Eidul Fitri dan doadoa yang baik dibaca sepanjang
Padat dengan pengisian agama, buku
pantun ini boleh dijadikan bahan
bacaan menarik sesuai buat pencinta
bahasa, mereka yang ingin berjinakjinak dengan bahasa, mereka yang
mencari kata-kata nasihat yang
ringkas dan mereka yang ingin
mendalami seni mengarang pantun
yang bermutu lagi sistematik.
Dapatkan senaskah Buku Rangkaian
Pantun
Dakwah
ini
dengan
sumbangan seikhlas hati. Hubungi
Puan Rosmini di talian 6743 1211
pada waktu pejabat.
Voice of Islam
49
Dakwah
Islam The Perennial
Peace Mission
by Zainuddin Muhammad Ismail
Islam is the name of the religion
of more than one billion humans.
Its potential to be revived again as
a global peace mission can be seen
from its historical legacy in saving
large areas of the globe from the Dark
Ages.
As Bernard Lewis has repeatedly
stated in different books, Islam has
categorically made intellectual, social,
moral and scientific contributions
that made it a world civilization.
The values that empowered Islam
and enthused the early Muslims and
their supporters are still extant.
The cosmopolitanism of this
multiracial, multireligious legacy
of the Muslims could not have
been achieved without the support
and backing of the people of the
Judaic-Christian world and other
communities whose enlightened
leaders accepted the concept of
peace which Islam taught.
Even Syed Qutb in his book “Islam and
World Peace” had to acknowledge
that each day, Muslims pray for world
peace in the words “Allahumma antas
salam wa minkas salam tabaraqta ya
zal jalali wal ikram” This realisation
of the core value of peace in Islam is
further underlined by God’s attribute
name, As-Salam or ‘The Author of
Peace’ which forms part of the Asmaul-Husna rosary meditated upon by
Muslims. As-Salam also means that
God does not do any injustice to his
creatures.
50
Voice of Islam
I cannot fail to remind myself of the
words of the Biblical Jesus a.s who
said “blessed are the peacemakers”.
Each day, Muslims all over the world
greet each other with the most
beautiful greeting, “Assalamu álaikum
Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh”. The
Quran tells us clearly:
“When anyone gives you a greeting,
return it with a better greeting or at
least the same (greeting). [Surah AnNisa, Verse 86]
This universal value of peace is
reflected in greetings from other
faiths such as Shalom, Shanti, Ping
An and Pax. Indeed, the reason for
the stability and harmony of Islam
was that it consolidated the universal
values or global ethics of pre-Islamic
civilizations. Peace is meaningless
without striving for justice which
is another theme of importance in
Islam.
This coupling of peace with justice
is a reason for the rapid spread of
Islam among people. Yet the striving
for Justice has to be done in a proper
civilised manner as the Prophet PBUH
said that the best of jihad (all-out
struggle) is a word of truth to an unjust
ruler and certainly not with violence.
The angels were agitated when Allah
SWT announced to them that He was
about to appoint a khalifa fi lard or
trustee on earth. They had responded
in the Quranic parable with a question
whether Allah SWT was going to
appoint one who would create tumult
on earth and bloodshed?
Allah SWT then answered, “I know
what you do not know”.
Even when a meta-historical event
regarding the feud of Cain and Abel
was mentioned, Abel tells a furious
Cain “If you are going to raise your
hands to kill me, I will not raise my
hands to kill you, because I am in awe
and heedful of Allah, the Lord and
Cherisher of the Universe!”
Such sentiments for harmony and
peace are clearly and unambiguously
delineated in the most important
prayer in Islam known as Al-Fatihah
(The Opening), which is also the first
chapter of the Quran. It begins with
Bismillahirrahmanirrahim: In the
name of Allah, the Infinitely Gracious,
Magnanimous which clearly has a
dimension of love.
The whole chapter of Al-Fatihah
reminds us that we are part of
a cosmic family with God as our
Cherisher and Sustainer. God wants
all of us to pursue the right path so
that we can attain the felicity, the
success of those that God has shown
His ultimate blessings to: anámta
álaihim. In the Manifesto of Islam
the follow up of an earlier work
the “Ideology of the Future” by Dr
Rafiuddin which Indian philosopher
Dr Radakrishnan refers to as an
original contribution to knowledge.
Dr Rafiuddin stated clearly that love
is the basis of Al-Islam and that the
religion thrives upon it. Indeed, Al
Wadood the Infinitely Loving is yet
another attributive name of Allah.
Dakwah
Al Aadl or the Infinitely Just is yet another
attributive name and as we said earlier, the
striving for peace comes with the wholesome
and proper striving for justice. As Allah SWT
states that on the Day of Judgement, Allah
SWT will not cause even an iota of injustice to
be inflicted on anyone.
This world however, is an imaginal one of
tests and trials designed to bring out the
gold of a human being. The Prophet PBUH, in
innumerable instances such as the Treaty of
Hudaibiya, the Constitution of Madina and the
Charter of Protection for Christians showed
how to be both gracious and noble.
Every daily prayer in Islam should empower
Muslims to be missionaries for peace, love and
harmony. They should thus undo the harm of
deviant deviationists who destroy the name of
Islam.
This was how Islam was spread in different
parts of the world and even today, we have
excellent examples in the work of Maulana
Wahiduddin of India, the late Badiuzzaman
Said Nursi of Turkey and others whose
exemplification of the Sunnah in modern
times earned the reverence of millions of
Muslims who want to follow the path of
moderation, love, peace and knowledge in the
21st Century.
“When anyone gives
you a greeting, return
it with a better
greeting or at least
the same (greeting).”
[Sura An-Nisa, Verse 86]
Voice of Islam
51
52
Voice of Islam
Dakwah
Dakwah
Voice of Islam
53
54
Voice of Islam
Dakwah
Dakwah
Voice of Islam
55
56
Voice of Islam
Dakwah
Dakwah
Voice of Islam
57
Dakwah
‫ﺣﺴﻦ ﺍﻟﻈﻦ‬
58
Voice of Islam

PDF - Jamiyah Singapore

Transcription

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