KANGAR, Nov 3 (Bernama) –Religious teachers should use digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly to expand the reach of dakwah (propagation of Islam), especially among younger generations, said Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail.
Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra said advances in digital technology and AI have created opportunities to disseminate religious knowledge to the public, but stressed that all shared information must be checked and verified for accuracy.
“Religious teachers must be able to assess sources, understand the context and ensure that their explanations are based on authoritative religious references,” he said when officiating the Perlis Religious Teachers Symposium and the Presentation of Islamic Teaching Credentials for this year at Dewan Warisan here today.
His Royal Highness said religious teachers have a significant responsibility to guide the public in understanding and practising Islam correctly, going beyond imparting knowledge to shape moral character, instil good values, and educate younger generations.
“Every religious teacher should therefore possess a sound grounding in religious knowledge, put into practice the teachings they impart and serve as a good role model. Sincerity, piety and a commitment to expanding their knowledge should also underpin their duties,” the Raja Muda said.
His Royal Highness said professionalism should also be reflected in thorough preparation, punctuality, effective communication, courtesy and openness to feedback and constructive criticism, stressing the importance of these attributes in strengthening public confidence in the religious guidance and teachings provided by religious teachers.
The Raja Muda said state development should go hand in hand with advances in education, strong religious values and good moral character among the public, with religious teachers playing an important role in nurturing knowledgeable, disciplined generations with a firm grounding in religious principles.
Meanwhile, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra said the symposium played an important role in raising the standard of religious education, strengthening teachers’ professionalism and improving religious outreach methods to ensure their continued relevance in today’s context.
“I hope the symposium will identify new strategies to improve the quality of religious outreach in Perlis. These plans should take into account current needs, the challenges facing younger generations and technological developments to ensure religious teachings remain effective and easy to understand,” His Royal Highness added.
