PUTRAJAYA: Twenty-five representatives from various religions have been selected as members of the Interfaith Harmony Committee (HARMONI) for the 2025-2026 session.
Out of this number, 10 representatives are from Islam, four from Buddhism, four from Christianity, two from Hinduism, two from Taoism, one from Sikhism, one from the Bahá’í Faith, and one from the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR).
During the HARMONI meeting, chaired by Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Nai’m Mokhtar, all committee members were informed of the Cabinet’s decision stating that the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) may advise Muslims on the need to safeguard their faith during non-Muslim religious celebrations and funeral ceremonies.
However, this advice is not considered a policy directive.
Elaborating further, Aaron emphasised that the Ministry will continue to organise programmes related to religious dialogue, education on the importance of respecting other beliefs, and social activities that involve various religious communities.
“This aims to foster mutual understanding and respect among Malaysians.
“I hope that the Jejak Harmoni programme can be implemented in all states to enhance harmony among religious adherents in Malaysia,” he said.
On another note, Mohd Na’im expressed his confidence that the HARMONI Committee meeting serves as a strategic platform for discussing issues related to community unity among different races and religions maturely and constructively.
“I hope that this meeting can formulate resolutions that will have a significant impact on national harmony, based on the principles of justice, tolerance, and mutual understanding.
“The Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) through JAKIM will continue to support the efforts of the HARMONI Committee and the Ministry of Unity to ensure that interfaith relations and cooperation in our country remain strong in achieving national unity and well-being.
“I believe that the outcome of this meeting will catalyse towards strengthening national unity, ensuring a harmonious and inclusive future for the next generation,” he said.
Both Aaron and Mohd Na’im expressed their hope that the HARMONI Committee will be an effective platform for managing unity-related issues and fostering understanding and harmony among religious leaders and adherents, in support of the goal of building a Malaysia MADANI.
