The persistent appeal of an Islamic state in Malaysia

A segment of Malay Muslims believes Malaysia would benefit from ulama (Islamic scholars) holding more power or leading the government. This belief stems from the argument that ulama, with their religious knowledge and piety, are better equipped to maintain moral standards, uphold Islamic ethics, and combat corruption in government. This viewpoint holds significant historical, educational, and institutional weight and still influences political discussions today.

The most organized manifestation of this idea is found within the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS). Inspired by the Iranian Revolution and the broader Islamic revival, PAS adopted ulama leadership in the 1980s. It established the Majlis Syura Ulama, an advisory council of religious scholars, to interpret policies based on the Quran and Hadith, vet candidates, and serve as the party's highest decision-making body under a spiritual guide.

Malay Muslim elites, such as Yusof Rawa, have argued that ulama are less susceptible to personal or partisan abuses of power due to their religious training and accountability before God.

PAS has governed Kelantan steadily since 1990 and held power sporadically in Terengganu and Kedah, often appointing ulama or those with strong Islamic credentials to key executive positions. The party has also pragmatically maintained a relationship with the Malay monarchy, recognizing their constitutional role as the heads of Islam in their respective states. This pragmatic approach allows PAS to advance its agenda within the constitutional framework rather than challenging it outright.

Officially, institutions like Malaysia's Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) have expanded the role of religious authorities. In 2023, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim directed JAKIM leaders, muftis, and ulama to play a more significant role in national policymaking. This shift aimed to integrate religious scholars' expertise into areas traditionally governed by technocrats and politicians, elevating their influence in national development frameworks.

The inclination towards ulama as natural leaders of an Islamic society isn't a recent phenomenon. For generations, Malays have been educated in a system that emphasizes religious studies, both within national schools and the parallel Islamic stream. This consistent exposure has conditioned many to view those with deep knowledge of sharia and theology as the most suitable moral authorities.

Earlier ideological movements, such as the Darul Arqam movement founded by Ashaari Muhammad, promoted a self-sufficient Islamic community and had messianic undertones. Though banned in 1994 by the government, the underlying ideas persisted, leading to residual support for more extensive Islamic social and political models.

In recent years, some Malays have been exposed to the ideology of the Islamic State (ISIL/ISIS), which advocates for a caliphate governed by strict Sharia law under religious authority. Although the number of Malaysians involved in extremism remains limited, the dissemination of these ideas online has reinforced the notion that true Islamic governance requires ulama at the helm.

Supporters of increased ulama influence often cite Malaysia's persistent corruption problem, with surveys showing widespread concern and numerous scandals involving Malay Muslim elites. While campaigns promoting Islamic values in administration have not eradicated the issue, advocates argue that only authentic religious authority can restore ethical discipline that secular systems have failed to achieve.

Malaysia remains a multi-ethnic constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system, where Islam is the religion of the Federation but not the basis of the legal and political order. Official religious institutions advise and regulate rather than rule. PAS adheres to democratic and monarchical constraints while working collaboratively with rulers.

Despite this, the underlying theology continues to resonate with many. Should significant external shocks occur—such as the collapse of Gulf monarchies, a decisive Iranian victory against the U.S., or internal power struggles within Malaysia's royal institutions—the appeal of an ulama-led system might become more pronounced.