Social media, popular culture threatening Muslim identity, says Sultan Nazrin

IPOH: Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, the Sultan of Perak, expressed concern that social media, popular culture, entertainment, and global lifestyles are increasingly impacting the minds of younger generations and threatening the Muslim identity. He emphasized the need for a delicate balance between embracing modernity and preserving religious principles and identity.

The Sultan stressed that thoughtful efforts were required to prevent modern influences from weakening Muslim values or causing a crisis of confidence in their identity. The challenges faced by Muslim character and the ummah's identity were significant, with younger generations exposed to global influences. At the state-level Maulidur Rasul celebration themed "Fostering Muslim Character – Fortifying the Identity of the Ummah," Sultan Nazrin highlighted the increasing challenges to the unity of the Muslim community.

He pointed out that political differences, various Islamic schools of thought, race, and the pursuit of influence were overshadowing the spirit of brotherhood, gradually marginalizing it. The Sultan urged Muslim leaders, Islamic organizations, and movements to avoid unnecessary disputes and minimize political rivalries. Instead, he encouraged prioritizing initiatives that can strengthen and elevate the Muslim community's identity.

There is a silver lining, as individuals and groups are pioneering positive initiatives and advancing awareness in Islamic education, Islamic economy, finance, halal industries, endowments, digital outreach, and family institution strengthening. These efforts must be expanded, strengthened, and brought to fruition.