Kota Kinabalu: More than 3,000 people gathered at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) last Thursday for an evening of reflection and spiritual renewal by internationally renowned Islamic preacher, Mufti Ismail Menk.
The “Mufti Menk Live in Sabah: Broken but Beloved” programme was jointly organised by Mara Corp subsidiary Glocal Link Travel & Tours, Faith Events and Al Falah Team Solutions with full support of the State Government for the first time in Sabah.
Mufti Ismail Menk, a leading global Islamic scholar from Zimbabwe known for his moderate and heartfelt approach, began his talk by addressing life’s trials, the concept of forgiveness in Islam and the importance of maintaining relationships with Allah and fellow human beings.
“Each of us has been broken and has fallen, but Allah SWT still loves us. Do not despair of His mercy and do not give up. Continue to connect with Allah SWT,” was among the key messages delivered by Mufti Menk.
The programme was seen as one of the large-scale religious outreach events in the State, serving as a platform for Muslims to reflect and strengthen unity in a harmonious setting.
It drew a diverse audience, including dignitaries, some State Ministers, students, families and community leaders.
Governor Tun (Dr) Musa Aman and his consort, Toh Puan Faridah Tussin were among dignitaries present. Also in attendance were Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin bin Datuk Mohd Arif, State Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Kadzim M. Yahya, State Mufti Datuk Ustaz Bungsu@ Aziz, Sabah Islamic Reigious Council (Muis) head Datuk Seri Yahya Hussin, Sabah Islamic Affairs Department (Jheains) Datuk Awang Juri Ag Tahir and senior officials.
Audience who bought books by Mufti Menk had the opportunity to have them signed as well as taking a photo with him.
Organising representative, Nirvana Jalil Ghani told Daily Express that the response exceeded expectations, with a full house of about 3,150 attendees reflecting strong community support.
“His delivery was calm, relatable and impactful and many remained engaged until the end. As the programme came to a close, many wished the session could continue.
“The presence of top state leaders alongside members of the public added a significant dimension to the programme, reflecting a shared commitment to community wellbeing and positive engagement,” she said.
Menk said his visit to Sabah was aimed at strengthening Islamic outreach while promoting unity among the state’s multi-ethnic communities.
He praised Sabah’s unique social fabric, describing it as a model of peaceful coexistence.
“Sabah is a very unique place where there is strong unity among people from various backgrounds. This is a blessing that must be preserved and protected,” he told reporters after paying a courtesy call on Musa at Istana Seri Kinabalu on April 30.
His message in Sabah focussed on emotional healing and optimism, particularly in the face of global challenges.
“At a time when the world is facing various challenges and negativity, we want to instil hope and give people renewed strength to face the future with courage,” he said.
Sabah Mufti Bungsu @ Aziz said the visit opened avenues for long-term collaboration between the State Government and religious authorities.
He said efforts would be made to bring more prominent Islamic scholars to Sabah to further strengthen outreach programmes.
“We have seen very encouraging progress in dakwah activities in Sabah over the past 50 to 60 years,” he said, expressing hope that such collaborations would help build strong leadership and sustain the growth of Islamic development in the state.
The last day of the State Legislative sitting on Thursday (April 30) was stopped for few hours to enable Mufti Menk to pay a courtesy call on Hajiji, State Cabinet Ministers and some assemblymen.
