SANDAKAN – In a pioneering move to engage local Muslims in religious activities, several Islamic non-governmental organisations (NGOs) orchestrated the inaugural Islamic programme paired with jazz music today at the Harbour Mall Piazza.
The innovative initiative sought to bridge cultural divides and foster community involvement in religious events.
Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Zulkifli Hasan lauded the groundbreaking Ramadan Jazz Elopura and expressed intentions to replicate the concept in the peninsula.
“The fusion of music with religious discourse presents a refreshing approach to fostering unity and inclusivity among Malaysians.
“By embracing cultural diversity, we redefine the narrative surrounding religious engagement,” Zulkifli said during a post-programme interview.
Ramadan Jazz Elopura – jointly organised by The Elopura Hotel, Pertubuhan Islam Seluruh Sabah Sandakan, Sabah State Islamic Religious Affairs Department, and Sandakan Municipal Council – featured jazz performances interspersed with enlightening talks by local religious leaders.
Commencing with the predawn “Geng Subuh” prayer session at 4am, the event transitioned seamlessly into an afternoon of jazz performances and spiritual discussions starting at about 4.30pm.
Zulkifli emphasised the significance of fostering interfaith harmony, noting the diverse attendance encompassing individuals from varying ethnic and religious backgrounds.
“Embracing our cultural differences is paramount to celebrating the richness of our nation. We shall endeavour to replicate this initiative nationwide, particularly targeting the youth demographic,” he affirmed.
Meanwhile, Datuk Mohd Afendi Hamdan, the organising chairman of Ramadan Jazz Elopura, underscored the non-political nature of the event and emphasised inclusivity as its cornerstone.
Buoyed by the success of the inaugural event, organisers resolved to establish it as an annual tradition in Sandakan during Ramadan. – March 24, 2024