Hadith Module Conduct Thorough Research Education Ministry Urged

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The Education Ministry was urged to conduct thorough research and consultation on the introduction of the “Imam Al-Nawawi 40 Hadith” module for Muslim students in public schools.
According to the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH), this is because government schools are attended by children and adolescents of diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
“The introduction of the 40 Hadiths into government schools is a decision of significant impact which will have implications upon religious education, cultural diversity, and social inclusivity.
“Although the module’s introduction may offer students an opportunity to learn about the Islamic religion, the reason for its implementation requires careful consideration of various factors,” it said in a statement today.
The alliance of Chinese communities in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur said factors to be considered include cultural diversity and principles of religious freedom within a diverse society.
This is to ensure fairness and balance in school education, it said, as well as respecting other religious beliefs and non-religious beliefs of other students.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek (right)Earlier today, Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui Ying’s special officer Lim Swee Kuan clarified that the module will only involve Muslim teachers and students in public schools.
On Aug 19, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek launched the “Imam Al-Nawawi 40 Hadith” appreciation module.
She said it will be introduced in National Religious Secondary Schools (SMKA) and Government-funded Religious Schools (SABK) before being rolled out to other public schools.
The module was reportedly developed upon the recommendation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim who wanted the hadith to be taught in schools.
The Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Taoism (MCCBCHST) expressed “deep concern” over the possibility that non-Muslim students will have to learn the module as well.
‘Provide balanced education’
KLSCAH said since formal Islamic education is already provided in government schools and universities, it asked if the values of other religions and cultures should be introduced by the ministry.
“KLSCAH believes the Education Ministry should conduct extensive research and consultation before implementing the decision-making process to ensure that the decision-making is based on a balance of various perspectives and interests.
“The ultimate goal of government schools should be to provide comprehensive, inclusive, and balanced education for students of all ethnic groups, nurturing their holistic capabilities and religious tolerance.
“At the same time, it’s crucial to respect and protect the religious freedom of every student, in order to achieve an education landscape widely recognised for its humanistic and qualitative education.”
Meanwhile, MCA urged Hui Ying to address growing concerns about the matter among the non-Muslim community, in clearer detail.
The party’s ethnic relations and religious affairs bureau chairperson Cally Ting said the explanation that the module will only apply to Muslims has not fully assuaged non-Muslim apprehension.
Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui YingShe asked Hui Ying to explain whether modules for national primary schools can be created without taking into account feedback from teachers and parents and whether the module is in line with the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025.
“It is more appropriate for the Education Ministry to focus on other pressing issues affecting education, such as the overburdening primary school syllabus, student dropout, teachers’ workload, and the shortage of teachers.
“The evolution of education in Malaysia is the result of the hard work and tireless efforts of educators. Hence, let us not ignore but take into account the voices of educators when formulating education policies,” Ting said.
She added that if the Hadith module was deliberated and approved in cabinet meetings, the non-Muslim community wants explanations from DAP ministers Anthony Loke, Hannah Yeoh, and Nga Kor Ming. - Mkini

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