KUALA LUMPUR: Cited for excellent contributions towards the development of the ummah and Islamic teachings, Tan Sri Othman Mustapha has been named the recipient of the top Maulidur Rasul figure award for the Federal Territories this year.

       “My hope is that Islam continues to be highly regarded and that our society lives in harmony and peace in line with the Malaysian Family concept,” said the Public Services Commission committee member at the Federal Territories-level Maulidur Rasul 2021 celebration here yesterday.

       In a statement, the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (Jawi) said the decision was made by the Maulidur Rasul 1443H figure award selection committee.

       In his speech delivered via a pre-recorded video, Othman described the award as a form of trust and responsibility to the religion and the country in ensuring the continuous propagation of Islamic teachings.The former Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) director-general added that he would continue to contribute his expertise and knowledge to help develop the Muslim community, especially in the Federal Territories, so as to be competitive, progressive, dynamic and united, based on the teachings of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah (adherents to the sunnah and the community).

       Meanwhile, Zikay Group Berhad group managing director Datuk Mohd Khay Ibrahim received the Special Award (Individual), while the Ar-Rahimah Mosque in Kampung Pandan received the Special Award (Organisation) in the mosque category.

       Other awards went to Surau Jumaat Al-Hikmah of the Beringin People’s Housing Project (surau category), as well as the Sekolah Integrasi Rendah Agama Jawi (Siraj) Saidina Uthman bin Affan (religious primary school or siraj category).

       Also awarded was Sekolah Rendah Islam Cahaya Ummi (a private Islamic education institution), while Persekutuan Seruan Islam Selangor dan Wilayah Persekutuan (Jam’iyah) received the award in the non-governmental organisation category.

       Earlier, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Idris Ahmad called on all agencies responsible for Islamic affairs to work hand in hand with society to help revive the country, which had been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. — Bernama