By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Sept 17: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has announced the State government’s plan to establish a Kolej Islam Teknikal, which will provide Muslim youths with enhanced opportunities to balance Islamic teachings with technical education, ensuring they can excel both in religious and worldly knowledge.
Abang Johari highlighted that this initiative aligns with Sarawak’s broader policy of creating a harmonious society that thrives on educational empowerment.
“Alhamdulillah, the Sarawak government will establish a Kolej Islam Teknikal to provide opportunities for our Muslim youths to carry out their responsibilities in accordance with the teachings of the Quran while mastering both religious and worldly knowledge.
“Both religious and worldly knowledge must be studied so that we can elevate the status of our faith, earn respect from others, and become a model for others to follow,” he said during the Sarawak-level Maulidur Rasul Assembly and Parade 2024 event today at Dataran Pehin Setia Raja in Mukah.
The Premier emphasised that the college would not only focus on Islamic teachings but also on technical and vocational skills to meet the needs of a modern workforce.
In his speech, Abang Johari also touched on the importance of unity and harmony within Sarawak’s diverse population.
He highlighted the significance of maintaining a peaceful coexistence between Muslim and non-Muslim communities, stating that such unity is crucial for the continued prosperity of the State.
“The celebration of Maulidur Rasul today is not only a moment to remember the teachings of Prophet Muhammad SAW but also a symbol of the unity and harmony among Muslims and non-Muslims in Sarawak.
“This is essential for ensuring that our State remains peaceful and prosperous,” he added.
Furthermore, the Premier spoke about the significance of Prophet Muhammad’s teachings, which serve as a guiding light for Muslims.
He stressed that the values embodied by the Prophet—trustworthiness, responsibility, and contributions to humanity—are qualities that should be emulated by all, particularly in leadership roles.
“The Prophet Muhammad is a role model for all of us. He was known as Al-Amin, the most trustworthy, and this is a trait that we, as Muslims, must strive to uphold in our daily lives.
“It is essential that we maintain honesty, integrity, and a sense of responsibility in everything we do,” said Abang Johari.
The Premier also linked these values to Sarawak’s governance, stating that the State is committed to principles of ‘Mudarabah’, which emphasise accountability not only in human interactions but also towards the environment.
He highlighted Sarawak’s focus on sustainability, noting that the State government has prioritised protecting the environment alongside development efforts.
“We are facing global challenges such as climate change and food security. Therefore, the Sarawak government is committed to addressing these issues by protecting our environment while working towards a better future for all,” he added.
The event was attended by various dignitaries and officials, including Sarawak Head of State (TYT), Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi; Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar; Sarawak Minister for Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development (KPWK), Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah; Sarawak Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication (MUT), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi; and Sarawak Islamic Council president Datuk Misnu Taha. — DayakDaily
