PUTRAJAYA: The Maqasid Syariah principles must be implemented and used as guidance by the government when developing new policies or strengthening existing ones, said Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

       The Prime Minister said a country’s development should not only focus on the physical aspects but also on the spiritual side of things to ensure the people’s well-being is taken care of.

       “The empowerment of the Malaysian Family needs to balance the spiritual aspects alongside physical development and the strengthening of the economy.

       “If the focus is only on physical development without emphasis on the spiritual aspect, this could jeopardise efforts to strengthen national unity.

       “As a policy maker, the government has to play its role in ensuring that the concept of well-being can be embraced by all members of the Malaysian Family.

       “By implementing the principles of the Maqasid Syariah in the country’s new and existing policies, we can achieve the level of well-being that we aspire,” said Ismail Sabri during the launch of the Keluarga Malaysia Keluarga Sejahtera book at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre here.

       The book was produced by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) and the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (Ikim).

       It emphasises aspects of holistic and sustainable governance based on Islamic principles.

       Ismail Sabri said ministries and agencies should refer to Jakim on the implementation of Maqasid Syariah-based governance.

       He added that the state religious departments were also encouraged to implement the Maqasid Syariah approach in state governments.

       “In a conference organised by the Department of Syariah Judiciary last September, I stated that Maqasid Syariah should be the core of every policy in shaping a just, prosperous and harmonious nation.

       “This principle emphasises universal matters, which is suitable for all members of the Malaysian Family who desire harmony between races and religions.

       “It does not limit the practices and beliefs of other religions, but it demands the value of togetherness,” said the Prime Minister.

       Ismail Sabri said religious differences should not be an obstacle towards unity and harmony.

       “Islam itself upholds the value of togetherness in the diversity of religions, races and cultures,” he added.

       Also present at the launch was Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Religious Affairs Datuk Idris Ahmad.