Anwar hits out at tendency to label others ‘munafik’

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has criticized the practice of labeling fellow Muslims as "munafik" or hypocrites over differing views, asserting that such conduct is at odds with the moral standards and character advocated by Islam. At a recent event in Putrajaya, Anwar expressed disappointment that, despite the government's initiatives to enhance religious education through pondok schools, accusations of hypocrisy continue to be directed at the government's leadership and budget.

He pointed out that individuals who only have a basic understanding of religion often make such judgments. Anwar urged them to improve their comprehension of Islam. This criticism followed Perikatan Nasional chief whip Takiyuddin Hassan's refusal to retract the use of the term "munafik" during the 2027 budget debate in Parliament.

The incident triggered protests from Jelutong MP RSN Rayer, who accused Takiyuddin of misinterpreting a hadith and applying the term "munafik" to Anwar and the budget. Speaker Johari Abdul intervened, cautioning MPs against the misuse of religious terms in debates, explaining that while these terms may be commonplace among those deeply versed in religion, they can cause confusion and heated arguments among those less familiar with their implications, including non-Muslims.