KUCHING: The transition of leadership of the Sarawak Mufti symbolises the continuity of the state fatwa institution which continues to be guided by wisdom, knowledge and responsibility in preserving the interests of religion and the well-being of the community.

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Project Coordinator for the Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said that the transition is not just a change of position, but rather reflects the strength and maturity of the religious institution which remains intact and authoritative.

According to him, throughout Datu Kipli Yassin's tenure as Sarawak Mufti, the state fatwa institution has been strengthened as a body, as well as respected and trusted by the community, especially Muslims in Sarawak.

"The role of a mufti is not just to issue fatwas, but to be a reference for the community, a guide to religious understanding and a voice of wisdom in ensuring a balance between the demands of syariah and the ever-evolving reality of the community," he said when speaking during the Sarawak Mufti Handover Ceremony at the Sarawak Islamic Complex Hall on Monday.

He added that Datu Kipli's contributions were not only evident in the aspects of issuing laws and Islamic views, but also in strengthening the approach to Islamic moderation, preserving the harmony of a plural society and contributing to the development of the community based on knowledge and wisdom.

"All the sacrifices, wisdom and guidance that have been poured out will certainly be a valuable legacy to Islamic institutions and agencies in Sarawak," he said.

In the meantime, he also expressed his congratulations and good luck in carrying out the responsibility to Datu Khalidi Ibrahim on his appointment as the new Mufti of Sarawak.

According to him, the responsibility requires wisdom, resolution based on knowledge and the ability to lead the community in facing the increasingly complex current challenges.

"I am confident that with the experience, knowledge and authority he possesses, he will be able to continue the excellence of the Sarawak fatwa institution to a more glorious level in the future," he said. -UKASnews