Maulidur Rasul Commemoration Must Go Beyond Festivities to Reflect Teachings of Prophet Muhammad, Says PM Anwar

SERDANG, Aug 25 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim called on Muslims to look beyond celebrations and processions during Maulidur Rasul, urging them to internalize and practice the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as a source of guidance and mercy for all humanity.

Speaking at the national-level Maulidur Rasul 1448/2026 celebration today, Anwar stated that the occasion should serve as a platform to inspire renewed spiritual awareness and enlightenment rather than fostering complacency.

“In the context of understanding Islam, the challenge lies in its practice and how we perceive it. Like the month of independence, it is not about the celebration, festivities or procession, but what matters most is upholding the commands of Allah SWT,” Anwar said.

“For me, this celebration is meant to inspire a renewed spirit, not to perpetuate old complacency. The torch of Islam remains dynamic and alive. Every episode in the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) offers a lesson for us,” he added.

Also present at the national celebration were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) Director-General Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee.

Anwar emphasized that the concept of rahmatan lil ‘alamin (mercy to all creation) must be actively demonstrated by building an exemplary society that balances moral principles with the pursuit of excellence.

He stressed that a society modelled on the Prophet’s teachings must promote goodness and justice while actively rejecting:

• Wrongdoing and social ills
• Arrogance and narrow-minded racism
• Oppression, corruption, and abuse of power

“How can we build the Malay and Muslim communities in Malaysia based on the principles taught by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) into a distinguished, unique and exceptional society that moves towards excellence? This is the test and challenge as we commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH),” he noted.

Addressing contemporary Islamic outreach (dakwah), Anwar urged religious advocates to refine their approach to ensure that messages encourage understanding and acceptance, pointing out that certain current practices risk pushing people away rather than drawing them closer to the faith.

–NMT