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Ipoh, August 7 – In a forward-thinking move, Perak Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Saarani Mohd Ali has championed the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the Islamic affairs sector. Addressing the Muslim community, he emphasized that AI shouldn't be perceived as a threat but rather a powerful tool to enhance services, streamline processes, and modernise Islamic institutions, all while adhering to Islamic principles and values.

Speaking at a recent event, Dato’ Seri Saarani highlighted several digital initiatives already underway in Perak aimed at improving the delivery of Islamic services. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to leveraging technology to better serve the needs of the Muslim community. He stressed the importance of ensuring that AI implementation is guided by maqasid al-Shariah (the objectives of Islamic law) and aligned with Islamic teachings.

“We must not fear technology. Instead, we should learn to harness its potential for good, especially in areas related to Islamic affairs,” he stated. “AI can assist in various aspects, from managing zakat funds more efficiently to providing accurate religious guidance and facilitating learning opportunities.”

Potential Applications of AI in Islamic Affairs:

• Zakat Management: AI algorithms can be used to analyse data, identify eligible recipients, and ensure the fair and efficient distribution of zakat funds.
• Religious Guidance: Chatbots powered by AI can provide instant answers to frequently asked religious questions, supplementing the work of religious scholars.
• Islamic Education: AI-powered platforms can offer personalised learning experiences, catering to different learning styles and providing access to a vast library of Islamic knowledge.
• Translation Services: AI can facilitate the translation of religious texts and resources into various languages, making them accessible to a wider audience.
• Community Engagement: AI can be used to analyse community needs and preferences, allowing Islamic institutions to tailor their programs and services accordingly.

The Menteri Besar’s call comes at a time when AI is rapidly transforming various sectors worldwide. Recognising the potential benefits, Perak is keen to explore how AI can be integrated into Islamic affairs in a responsible and ethical manner. This involves careful consideration of data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the need for human oversight.

Dato’ Seri Saarani further underscored the need for training and upskilling within the Islamic affairs sector to ensure that personnel are equipped to effectively utilise AI tools and technologies. He encouraged collaboration between religious scholars, technology experts, and policymakers to develop a comprehensive framework for AI implementation in Islamic affairs.

The vision is to create a modern and dynamic Islamic ecosystem that leverages technology to enhance the spiritual well-being and socio-economic progress of the Muslim community in Perak, and potentially serve as a model for other states in Malaysia. By embracing AI responsibly, Perak aims to strengthen its position as a progressive and forward-thinking state, while upholding its Islamic values and heritage. The key is to ensure AI serves as a tool to amplify, not replace, the wisdom and guidance of religious leaders and the core tenets of Islam.