Tokoh Maal Hijrah Awards Should Inspire Muslims - Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, June 17 (Bernama) -- The recognition received by the recipients of the Tokoh Maal Hijrah awards today should serve as an inspiration for all Muslims in the country, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said Muslims are therefore urged to continue seeking knowledge, serving the community and contributing to the development of the ummah, the nation and Islamic civilisation.

“Congratulations to Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Osman Bakar, who received the National Tokoh Maal Hijrah Award, and Prof Sheikh Dr Ahmad Al-Raysuni, who received the International Tokoh Maal Hijrah Award.

“This recognition reflects the significant contributions they have made in empowering the Muslim community, elevating the status of knowledge, and spreading Islamic values that bring mercy, wisdom and benefit to society,” he said in a Facebook post.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof also agreed that the recognition should serve as an inspiration for all Malaysians to continue serving and contributing to society and the nation.

“Congratulations to the recipients of the Tokoh Maal Hijrah 1448H/2026M awards, who have made significant contributions to the development of the ummah,” he said in a Facebook post.

Fadillah said the hijrah of Prophet Muhammad SAW was not merely a historical event, but a guiding principle that teaches Muslims the values of sacrifice, unity, resilience and determination to pursue positive change.

He said this spirit should continue to be embraced in efforts to develop a progressive, prosperous and values-based society and nation.

“Let us work together to strengthen unity, enhance faith and increase good deeds for the well-being of the ummah and the prosperity of the nation,” he said.

Osman and Ahmad, an Islamic jurisprudence expert from Morocco, were selected for the awards at the national-level Maal Hijrah celebration at Masjid Putra, Putrajaya.

The awards were presented by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, who graciously conferred cash prizes, trophies and certificates of appreciation to the two recipients.

-- BERNAMA