KUCHING – The Head of State of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, together with his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, has welcomed a delegation from the Sarawak Ulama Association (ITTIHAD) to the State Hall in Petra Jaya.
The visiting group was led by the association’s Chairman, YBhg. Datu Ustaz Haji Mohamed Ali bin Mohamed Sheriff.
He was accompanied by senior officials, including Deputy Chairman Ustaz Dr. Haji Syed Abdul Aziz bin Datuk Haji Wan Hamid Edrus and Secretary Ustaz Haji Muhammad Adib bin Haji Saini.
During the Tuesday audience, the delegation provided a comprehensive overview of the organisation’s structure and operational scope.
They detailed various ongoing programmes focused on education, religious outreach, and social welfare initiatives designed to benefit the Muslim community across the state.
The association’s representatives further articulated their ambition to reinforce the position of religious institutions in guiding the community toward unity and collective wellbeing.
Several working committee members and registered associates of ITTIHAD were also present for the meeting.
Tun Pehin Sri acknowledged and commended the association’s sustained commitment to advancing Islamic education and expanding its network of religious propagation throughout Sarawak.
He recognised the valuable contribution made by the organisation in these areas.
The Head of State voiced his expectation that ITTIHAD would maintain its active role in community education and the promotion of Islamic values.
He described the association as a potential strategic partner for the government in matters concerning social and spiritual development.
A key point emphasised during the discussion was the importance of collaborative efforts between religious organisations and government bodies.
Tun Pehin Sri noted that such cooperation ensures religious messages are conveyed thoughtfully and produce positive outcomes.
This approach is considered particularly significant within Sarawak’s diverse social fabric, where harmonious inter-community relations remain a priority.
Engagement with religious scholars is seen as crucial for maintaining social cohesion and mutual understanding among different ethnic groups.
The Sarawak government has consistently supported initiatives that promote religious understanding and community welfare.
Meetings of this nature form part of broader efforts to foster dialogue between state institutions and civil society organisations.
The Ulama Association functions as a representative body for Islamic scholars and religious teachers across the state.
Its activities include organising educational programmes, facilitating religious discourse, and conducting community welfare projects that align with Islamic principles.
