03 May 2018
An Imam of Masjid al-Aqsa, Sheikh Ekrima Said Sabri has commended Malaysia, under the leadership of Prime Minister Najib Razak for its continuous efforts in assisting the Palestinian Muslims, especially in the liberation of the holy mosque.
Sheikh Ekrima, who is also former Mufti of Jerusalem, made the comments during a commemoration of the Isra and Mi’raj.
“The Palestine issue has united all Muslims around the world. I would like to thank the Malaysian government for hosting the Isra and Mi’raj celebration as not only it allows us to remember the event, but also on the Palestine issues.
“Malaysia is one of the Islamic countries that is always concerned about Palestine and Al-Aqsa Mosque issues. For that, we would like to thank Malaysian government for continuously supporting the cause.
“The people’s and Malaysian government’s remembrance on the event of Isra and Mi’raj signifies the love for Palestine and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The story of Isra and Mi’raj is written in the Quran and this shows that the mosque has a deep connection with heaven and Muslims.
“The mosque is still being invaded by Israel, and we urge all Muslims worldwide to support and fight for Al-Aqsa,” he said in his speech at the National Israk Mikraj celebration at Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque in mid-April.
Najib, meanwhile, suggested that Isra and Mi’raj celebration to be held annually not only at national level, but also at state level.
“Isra and Mi’raj celebration should be an an annual event and I also urge the organiser, MyAqsa Foundation, to host such programme at state level.
“Other non-governmental organisations should emulate MyAqsa Foundation in fighting for Palestine and Al-Aqsa Mosque,” he said.
Razak called on Malaysians to learn the lessons from the Isra and Miraj event to boost synergy and spirit in defending the sovereignty of the country.
He said all Malaysians should be aware of the evil intentions of the Zionist regime who have always attacked and raised issues and polemics, including in Malaysia.
As such, Najib said the people must ensure that such intentions and agendas needed to be opposed and blocked as it could destroy the country.
“Do not be surprised that there has been the touch of the Zionists in some organisations, including political organisations who are seeking victory because they aspire to take control of the country.
“We cannot bear to see our beloved land being sold by those who have no love for the country.”
Speaking of the efforts to liberate the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Palestine from the grip of the ‘Zionist’ regime, Najib said Muslims around the world, who have now reached 1.8 billion in population, must unite and avoid division.
“Muslims represent a big voice on the international stage, but the huge number (in population) does not bring about strength if we are often at loggerheads, defaming and fighting (each other).
“In Islam, different opinions are permissible. However, disunity of the people is strictly forbidden as that can destroy the country,” he said.
As such, Najib said a wholesome approach was needed in order to sustain peace, since the latest projection showed that the Muslims population would reach 3 billion by 2050.
Najib later received Al-Aqsa Mosque certificate of appreciation from Sheikh Ekrima for his consistency in supporting to free Palestine and Al-Aqsa .
Najib then presented Al-Aqsa Figure Special Award to Sheikh Ekrima.
The event was organised by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) in collaboration with the MyAQSA Foundation.
Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom and Islamic Development Department (Jakim) director-general Tan Sri Othman Mustapha.
