KUCHING: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar today (Mar 11) received a courtesy call from newly appointed Sarawak Mufti Datuk Khalidi Ibrahim at his official residence at Kasuma Resort, Petra Jaya.
The visit marked the first official meeting between Khalidi and Wan Junaidi following Khalidi’s appointment as Sarawak Mufti, which took effect on Mar 1. He succeeded Datuk Dr Kipli Yassin who retired on Feb 28.
The meeting also served as a platform to strengthen ties between the state leadership and the religious institution.
During the meeting, Khalidi sought Wan Junaidi’s views, guidance and advice on the responsibilities of leading the state’s fatwa institution.
Wan Junaidi expressed hope that the Sarawak Mufti institution will continue to serve as a key reference for Muslims in matters related to syariah, fatwa and religious guidance, while contributing to the development of a knowledgeable and ethical society grounded in moderate and harmonious Islamic values.
He said the role of the Mufti extends beyond issuing fatwas and includes efforts to strengthen understanding of Islam as rahmatan lil ‘alamin, emphasising a balance of knowledge, wisdom and justice in addressing contemporary challenges while preserving unity in Sarawak’s plural society.
Wan Junaidi stressed the importance of a scholarly and wise approach in conveying religious guidance to ensure the fatwa institution remains respected as a credible and authoritative reference.
He also congratulated Khalidi on his appointment and expressed confidence that he would continue the legacy of previous scholars in preserving the purity of Islamic teachings and strengthening unity among Muslims in Sarawak.
