Jakim as a greater role to play in Anwar’s administration than previous governments.
The government will always uphold the principles of Islam and ensure the rights and justice for all Malaysians are safeguarded, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking at the launch of the ‘Adab Perbezaan Pendapat Dalam Islam’ book in Putrajaya today, Anwar said he would use the mandate and trust given by the people for that purpose.
“As a Muslim, I have a responsibility and the mandate to uphold the principles of Islam and justice for all, including the non-Muslims.
“The concept of Malaysia Madani does not fall far from these principles,” he added.
The premier also called on all Malaysians to give the government a chance to implement the principles embodied in the concept of Malaysia Madani.
Anwar appeared to hit back at Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad over his recent claims that the unity government was attempting to turn Malaysia secular and multi-ethnic.
Anwar said that he has always governed the country according to the principles of the Federal Constitution.
“I am of the view that Bahasa Melayu is the national language and also the language of knowledge. But I also think that the English language remains important as a language to master,” he said in his speech.
Dr Mahathir also accused Anwar of being influenced by 40 DAP MPs.
Anwar replied saying DAP has never questioned the position of Islam and the Malays nor had the latter ever broached the issue during Cabinet meetings.
“I am no one’s political puppet,” said Anwar.
Anwar also said the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) has a greater role to play in his administration than previous governments.
He said Jakim is more than capable of expanding its scope into other related fields such as discussing the economic narrative of Malaysia.