Perform duties entrusted with integrity, Muslim grassroots leaders reminded

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Abang Johari met by reporters after closing the seminar. — Photo by Chimon Upon

KUCHING: Muslim community leaders at the grassroots level in the state, including mosque and surau committee members, have been reminded to carry out their responsibilities with integrity.

This was conveyed by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, who said those at the grassroots must strive to avoid divisions among the Muslim community arising from acts of breach of trust.

He added this was why he had, together with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), created the Integrity and Ombudsman Unit after becoming chief minister two years ago.

“All levels of the government and from the temenggong to penghulu and community leaders, to members of the mosque and surau committees, must carry out the responsibilities entrusted to them with integrity.

“That is why we organise this mosque and surau leadership integrity seminar, as a reminder for all of you here to do your best,” he said when addressing the closing ceremony of the Sarawak Mosque and Surau Leadership Integrity seminar, here yesterday.

He also called the committees to take care and properly manage the finances of mosques and surau, so as to prevent misunderstandings which could result in disputes among members.

Earlier, Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Talib Zulpilip said the seminar – attended by more than 1,800 participants – aimed at improving the knowledge and skills of mosque and surau management to be more efficient and effective.

Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs and Kuching North City Commission) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi and Sarawak Islamic Council president Datu Misnu Taha were among those present yesterday.