MIRI – The Islamic family institution is the foundation of a harmonious society but is facing mounting challenges amid rising divorce and domestic violence cases, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Dato Sri Nancy Shukri.
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Speaking at the Sarawak Islamic Family Special Discourse 2025 themed “Shariah Asas Keluarga Sejahtera” at the Miri Civic Hall on Sunday, she revealed that 7,116 domestic violence cases were reported nationwide in 2024, up from 5,507 cases the year before. In Sarawak alone, 1,124 Muslim couples divorced last year, mainly due to a lack of mutual understanding.
“This is a real challenge that we need to address together, not only through the law, but also with education, guidance and social support,” she stressed.
Nancy said the teachings of Prophet Muhammad SAW, which emphasise kindness towards family members, should be made the guiding principle in building happy households. She highlighted that shariah is not only a legal framework, but also a vital foundation for nurturing love, loyalty and long-term family well-being.
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She urged community leaders, KAFA teachers, NGOs and government agencies to play an active role as agents of change in strengthening family values.
According to her, KPWKM is implementing various initiatives, including family counselling programmes, improved pre-marriage courses and awareness campaigns through Talian Kasih.
“Every family that we strengthen today will be the nation’s fortress tomorrow. Every heart that we touch today will be the light of the future that will not go out,” she said.
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The ceremony, organised by the Sarawak Syariah Judicial Department, also featured the launch of the Family Support Division Monitoring Unit, financial aid presentations, and the distribution of Sakinah Baskets.
