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Pan Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) is the only political party in Malaysia that bears the name of Islam in Malaysia. PAS's performance in every election is seen to fluctuate in every election and often comes out the political party's alliance. GE-14 (2018) sees PAS stand alone against BN and Pakatan Harapan (PH) using the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) logo. As a result PAS remains in power in Kelantan, capturing Terengganu from the BN but is not widely accepted in the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Thus, the purpose of this article is to analyze the performance and acceptability of PAS voters in the GE-14 in the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Negeri Sembilan and Malacca. Based on the analysis of the 2018 General Elections data, field observations and secondary sources such as journal articles and conference papers, the study shows that PAS is difficult to gain strong support from voters in the West Coast due to voters' uncertainty over PAS's ability by taking the example of the PAS government in Kelantan causing the people of the country to continue to suffer from poverty and poor infrastructure. PAS also failed to get good support from non-Malay voters/non-Muslims because the party is seen as too extreme and less emphasis on the welfare of non-Muslims. The implication of this article is that in order to gain the support of voters in the West Coast region of Peninsular Malaysia, PAS needs to adapt its struggle and campaign strategies to simplify, showcase leadership that is beneficial to the welfare of the people and more inclusive to all races and religions throughout Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The organisation of the “Jom Ziarah Gereja” programme under the purview of the Youth and Sports Ministry has spark an intense debate recently. Scholars, muftis, and authoritative parties express their respective views on the issue that are seen to be related to the faith of Muslims. There are among those who take a firm stand, rejecting the clearance that opens the door for Muslims to explore and delve into the activities behind the worship rooms of other religions. While the others restricted with conditional permission, for those who want to enter a church, monastery or any premises that carry out ritual activities for non-Muslims. This paper explores hadiths that are related to the issue of entering a non-Muslim house of worship. The analysis on the sources of related hadith is focusing to matan involving church institutions only, in accordance with the polemics that are floating around in society. The stance and actions of the previous companions, tabi'in and salafussoleh are also included in this study to provide an inclusive and conclusive picture of the issues highlighted. The findings of this study found that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم was strict towards elements of other religions that were seen trying to exert influence on Muslims. Even so, conditional consent is given in some situations that are deemed to be essential that require Muslims to enter the church. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The halalan toyyiba is a comprehensive concept brought by Islam. According to this concept, the source of consumption must be clean and pure. Every source point, from the initial production process and methods to the final management, such as waste disposal methods, must be taken into account to meet the requirements of the halalan toyyiba. The present time sees water-based use increasingly widespread in daily life. Strictly speaking, the concept of sharia-compliant halalan toyyiba in water use, such as agriculture and farming, still needs to be seriously discussed. Therefore, the issue of sharia-compliant halalan toyyiba in water use is significant to study and draw up a sharia-compliant guide for the Malaysian community, especially the Muslims. This concept coincides with the country's national agenda, namely the National Halal Hub Policy. The main objective of this paper is to study the idea of halalan toyyiba in the management of domestic water in Malaysia. This paper is based on qualitative methods. Fatwa-based resources, scholarly publications, journals, and as such, will be analyzed and summarized descriptively to produce a conclusion that answers the paper's objectives. The findings show that the fundamental concept of sharia-compliant halalan toyyiba regarding domestic water management in Malaysia has yet to be fully implemented. Therefore, this policy must be executed precisely in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to explore the ideas and thoughts of Malik Bennabi on the issue of civilization, especially the Islamic world. At the same time, this article will identify ideas that can be taken as lessons from the ‘post-al-Muwahhidun’ according to Malik Bennabi. Besides that, it also discusses the situation of Muslims after the fall of the caliphate of al-Muwahhidun which he referred to as colonisabilite who have lost ‘spirit’ and ‘idea’. This situation is described by Malik Bennabi as in a state of stagnation for a long time. This paper uses the method of content analysis through inductive and deductive forms from Malik Bennabi’s books as primary sources and other related documents. In addition, historical analysis was also conducted to strengthen the arguments and findings of the article. The study divides Malik Bennabi’s analysis of the issue of ‘civilization’ into four main lessons. First, the issue raised is that Muslims need to understand the current phase of Muslims in the context of the cycle of civilization, second; reconstructing the culture, third the importance of education, science and ideas and fourth Muslims need to respond to the call of religion. The issues raised are seen as significant and relevant to the development and situation of Muslims today. Together, it needs to be understood and internalised to regenerate the glory and strength of Islam as achieved in the past. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current global Muslim community is facing new challenges amidst the remnants of historical colonisation, sectarianism, and current geopolitical, economic and social realities. Despite these challenges, Muslim communities in general have been consistent in preserving the religious precepts derived from the primary sources of Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah, which form the foundation of the Islamic identity. Although widely underemphasised, futures thinking is deeply ingrained in the precepts of Islamic thought since the time of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), which unbeknownst to many, has indubitably shaped the transformation not only in Muslim communities, but has also influenced global shifts in civilisation from multifarious aspects, for example, science and technology, arts, governance and social justice. This paper seeks to illustrate the significance of Islamic futures thinking as a foundation for progress in Muslim communities, by applying the qualitative methods of content analysis and engagements in focus group discussions. To this end, the study analyses data obtained from the exploration of Islamic texts, traditions and literatures on the Islamic perspectives of futures thinking. This paper advances the proposition that futures thinking has a profound basis in Islam due to the universal nature of the Islamic concepts of knowledge, the methods of addressing gradual and imminent change, its constant inspirations towards excellence and a justly balanced society, as well as Islamic ethics in foresight. Findings of this study highlight the importance of futures thinking as a capacity that must be developed in the Muslim world as part of the process towards long term social transformation.

This article aims to explain at a glance the administration and implementation of Islamic law during the period of Brooke's reign in Sarawak. This study uses a historiographical approach that is historical writing, principles or methods of historical writing and works or results of writing related to Islamic law in Sarawak during the reign of Brooke. The historiographic research approach used in this study went through four steps, namely; heuristic; source criticism; interpretation; and historiography. The problems answered in this paper are related to the administration and existence of Islamic jurisprudence throughout the period of Brooke’s reign. Manuscripts, notes of Brooke and notes of British officials from the West relating to Islamic jurisprudence in Sarawak during Brooke's reign were collected, critiqued and interpreted to produce a new historiography of the development of Islamic jurisprudence in the state of Sarawak. All information obtained from historical materials is crosschecked or audit trail to test the validity of the information. Inductive and deductive analysis approaches are used in the content analysis of historical materials to give meaning to the historical facts found. This study successfully explains the administration and implementation of Islamic law from the beginning of the reign of James Brooke until the last Rajah Brooke in Sarawak. The historical materials also managed to prove that the administration and implementation of Islamic law is the result of the legacy of the governments in Sarawak before the appointment of James Brooke as Governor of Sarawak in 1841. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthquakes are often viewed as negative phenomena as they threaten human beings and other life on earth. Although researchers scientifically explained this phenomenon, people still relate it to God’s role. Discussions from physical or scientific studies, as well as metaphysical and theological views, are essential to gain a deeper understanding. Geology examines earthquakes scientifically, including the causes, effects, and earthquake-prone places, while religion perceives it is caused by the power of God (Supreme Being) that determines everything. The purpose of this study is to emphasize the comparative analysis of earthquakes from both Islamic and Christian perspectives using a qualitative method concerning the Quran, tafsir al-Quran, Bible, biblical exegesis, and secondary literature relevant to both religions and geology. Although earthquakes are broadly studied in both faiths, researchers are less interested in doing in-depth comparative analysis of many features. This paper is a comparative study and reveals the similarities and differences of earthquakes in seven areas: earthquakes in the scriptures, religious views, historical earthquakes, current earthquakes, future earthquakes, religious coping, and earthquake geological facts in scriptures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engaging in the agricultural sector is Islamic demand. Rasulullah PBUH's suggestion clearly emphasizes the importance of this sector in prospering the greenery of this earth. This article collected several hadiths related to agriculture that explain the benefits of agriculture from the perspective of alsunnah and its management, agriculture as an economic driver and the challenges of implementing al-sunnah recommendations in the era of globalization. Besides, this article also highlights some Islamic scholars who made significant contributions in the field of agriculture, namely al-Dinawari, Ibn Sina, Ibn Sidah, Ibn al-Rumiyyah and Ibn al-Baitar. Descriptive analysis was used to analyze the collected study text. The main objective of this paper is to list the hadiths related to agricultural incentives as well as to present to the community that Islam since the heyday of Islamic civilization has emphasized the aspect of agriculture as one of the main sources of economy. Therefore, it is hoped that this article can contribute to the replenishment of human capital in the agricultural sector. This is further strengthened by the recommendations of the Malaysian government which places great emphasis on the agricultural sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the function of arbitration at Patani Muslim Religious Committee Council (PMRCC) and offers mediation mechanisms as an alternative way of solving the matrimonial disputes among the Muslims in the Malay-Muslims majority areas. Conceptually, dispute resolution is being recognized as an effective way in the field of adjudication in Islamic law. Although there have been attempts to implement dispute resolution mechanisms in the Muslim Religious Committee Councils (MRCCs), no attempt so far has been made to upgrade them. To a large extent, dispute resolution has been implemented gradually since the beginning of the establishment of the councils. This paper intends to investigate the current trend and the future direction for the implementation of dispute resolution in PMRCC by exploring the available alternatives to the continued pursuit of the process of dispute resolution in PMRCC while at the same time strengthening the existing structures. Finally, the author will provide some suggestions as to how dispute resolution in PMRCC might operate. The author will also highlight the strength and weaknesses of arbitration under Thai civil law with a view toward a better legal provision for arbitration.

Roof Crown of the mosque is a 3D ornament designed in various shapes and sizes. Roof Crown has its own unique characteristics that have a basic rectangle, pyramid-shaped, terraced, and have angle decoration. However, the uniqueness of the mosque's rooftop crown is now threatened and its numbers are dwindling due to the fact that some of the people who do not accept and say that this decoration is not in the mosque building due to reasons which do not adhere to Islamic teachings. Therefore, the main purpose of this paper is to be mapping the location of the roof crown of mosque and the typological classification of the crown design found on the crown roof of the mosque in Malacca. The research method used to achieve this objective is to use qualitative methods involving library and field studies as well as using typology of analysis. This study was conducted in all districts in the State of Malacca namely Jasin, Central Malacca and Alor Gajah. The research was carried out in 360 ° visual documentation using DJI Phantom 3 Standard Dron technology to get detailed roof crown design as well as Google Maps application to map the location of the mosque. The use of Adobe Illustrator also helped to create a visual illustration of a mosque's crowning crown in Malacca. The results of this study have found that 38 traditional mosques still have a rooftop crown in Malacca. The results of this study have identified several types of design typologies that have been featured in the design of a mosque roof crown in Malacca. The findings of this study are expected to keep the crown jewel of the mosque still in use in the mosque building as an art decoration that represents the identity of the local Muslim community, especially in Malacca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Northern Nigeria is a Muslim dominated part of the country. Despite all the resources committed by the government in pursuit of achieving Zakat and Waqf noble objectives and different policies, embarked upon to combat poverty in the country, the realization remains a mirage in Northern Nigeria. The effectiveness of the various methods chosen in bringing about the changes has remained a question begging for answer. However, This paper, in an effort to explore opportunities, avenues and policies for making positive contributions to national development has posited that, through Zakah and Waqf every individual in the society is assured of minimum means of livelihood, The potential roles of two Islamic institutions; Zakat and Waqf in poverty eradication are herein discussed as well as how Islam uses them among others to achieve the goals. The paper attempts to define a new approach to poverty analysis and suggests a way to make the role of Zakat and Waqf more effective in the poverty reduction. The paper is analytical with presentation based on survey of relevant literature, with a view of adding to existing literature as well as synthesizing opposing views on the socio-economic role of Zakah and Waqf, also the process of their revitalization in the modern time. It concludes with other useful suggestions and recommendations for Nigerian Government and Muslims especially the Northern part.

Islam puts women in a very noble position after the advent of Islam. The question often asked to the community is the rights and roles of women in an institution. In fact, the role of women today is on par with the role of men as long as they do not conflict with Islamic law. In addition, the issue of this woman's role is a warm conversation as it touches on the persecution committed against women. The 'Sorrounding Woman of Sorban' film opened the eyes of the community to recognize the woman more closely. The film has been adapted from novel to movie level to highlight issues raised specifically for Muslim women. The film also features persecution against women. Therefore, this study was conducted to analyze the rights of Muslim women in the Sorban Banded Woman film. In addition, this study will link the issues of women with the role of women in Islam. The methodology used in this study is library study and document analysis. Information is obtained through scientific references related to research titles such as books, theses, papers, newspapers, articles, the internet, and other suitable materials for reference. The results of this study will find that the researcher will differentiate the reality of the role of women today with the 'Perempuan Berkalung Sorban' film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the experience of one of the Islamic world universities in teaching Arabic language online (remotely); It is the Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University (UNISSA). The paper dealt with this experience by stating its most important components, characteristics, reasons, and the most important challenges and difficulties it faced, at the same time, the study suggested some recommendations that may contribute to addressing those challenges. The study concluded that the experience of "Teaching Arabic language online" at Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University is a very modern experience created by the circumstances of the Corona pandemic, which obligated everyone to social distancing as a part of safety measures as well as one of the foundations of distance education. The study concluded also that this experience has strengthened the idea of adopting this system in the future, and taking it as part of the education system at the university; taking into account the tremendous technological developments that have imposed themselves on the world and the changes in the life system with the pandemic and beyond it, especially in the Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam, which is considered a role model in controlling the pandemic and preventing its spread. The study recommended the need to conduct more field research to determine the appropriateness of this type of education for learners, and the extent to which it achieves its educational goals.

The term of"religious pluralism" in Malay Languange often creates controversy among thinkers and politicians. Some say it is a translation of religious plurality which the meaning as religious diversity. While some say it is a translation of the term religious pluralism that leads to recognise of the unity of religious truth. Understanding the diversity of religion and unity of religious truth religious creates confusion to the Muslim community in particular related to the position of Islam that has real truth. This paper aims to discuss the basic guidelines in finding the limitation between recognition of religious diversity or recognition of the unity of religious truth. The preliminary findings found that there are four fundamental questions that can be used to be the basis for differentiate the thoughts that lead to religious divergence or recognition of the unity of religious truth ie their views on the cause of religion, the role and position of other religions, readiness of living harmoniously and most importantly the views on need of preaching to other religions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Islam is the name of religion promulgated by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). Islam has its own specific shariah that distinguishes it from other religions. Based on Quranic reference, the scholars have understood that the only religion that is true and acceptable by Allah is Islam. With regard to Muhammad Asad nonetheless, he has interpreted 'Islam' differently from the interpretation of mu'tabar. Muhammad Asad interpreted 'Islam' as a self-surrender to God with generic language meaning. This study attempts to see the premise of his interpretation which differs from the interpretation of mainstream Muslims. This paper also seeks to investigate the implication of such interpretation to the belief of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jamaah. This study using content analysis method thematically on his work of tafseer, "The Message of the Quran" by selecting texts from the Quran that contain the word 'Islam' and semantically towards some conceptual texts that are related to it and relevant to the religious pluralism issue. The study finds that Muhammad Asad's interpretation in line with liberal approach and contradicts the Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jamaah's tenets by accepting and recognizing the truth of other religions that end with inclusivism and religious pluralism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Welfare, women and children are an item under the Concurrent List of the Malaysian Federal Constitution. This means, despite having a National Women Policy at the federal level, states can also play an important role in the same matter. Kelantan State Government had launched and carried out the Kelantan Women Policy for more than a decade. It is clear that the Kelantan State Government also place emphasis on women and family development. It is worth noted however that it has chosen a different approach in comparison with other states in Malaysia. The Kelantan Government has opted for the Islamic Development Approach which is basically based on 'Ubudiyah (ultimate submission to Allah), Masuliyah (responsibilities) dan Itqan (due deligence). It is thus clear from the said approach that the Kelantan Government is targetting development which is based on Islam and the Syariah. Numerous achievement has been attained within the said period. After more than a decade, the time has come to re-evaluate the Kelantan Women Policy to strengthen the existing provisions. In addition, the United Nations has launched the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure that all the state members draft their state development plan by considering various aspects including sustainability. The review on the Kelantan Women Policy must take into account SDG to ensure its future implementation is in line with the global needs and, at the same time, not at the expense of its foundational value, Islam. This paper intends to, first, briefly explains what has been achieved by Kelantanese Women in the implementation of Kelantan Women Policy and secondly, to propose some improvements to the existing policy which are in line with SDG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commodity murabahah has received extensive exposure since the Islamic financial industry shifted from bay’ bithaman ajil for its banking and financial products. The muamalat based contract which is innovated from the classical tawarruq with certain modifications has proliferated in many of the retail products in Malaysia including home financing. This paper analyses the financing facility offered to Malaysian homebuyers to investigate the extent of safeguards present in the facility when there are project abandonments. The operation of commodity murabahah as practiced in Malaysia for houses under construction are discussed and analysed with respect to their operations to know whether they conform both in form and substance. The analysis is done via library research while semi-structured interviews on operation of the facilities are done with experts in the field. The study finds that the commodity murabahah facility catered lacks the necessary safeguards for customers of Islamic banks. This can further aggravate the situation of homebuyers who have no proper recourse when their under constructed houses are left abandoned by developers. The paper calls for a more Shariah based oriented facility for houses under construction which is close to its muamalat nature in order for the rights and obligations of parties involved in home financing be inherent.

Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) has become global pandemic, which affects all countries in the world including Indonesia. The mitigation of covid-19 pandemic in Indonesia cannot neglect the role of religion, since religion constitutes the main identity of most people. Hence, religion becomes value reference and ‘system of knowing’, including in addressing the covid-19 pandemic. By employing comparative and content analysis, it is hoped that this paper will constitute a significant contribution in unravelling the complex role of religion in dealing with covid-19 pandemic, most particularly in the context of post-truth. There are three concerns of this paper. First, it examines the challenges of religious conservatism towards covid-19 mitigation among Indonesian Muslims, most particularly in the context of post-truth which in some ways intensifies the emergence of conservativism in the public space. Second, it explores the possibility of ‘new spirituality’ which is pertinent for the mitigation of Covid-19. Third, it explores the contribution of Indonesian Muslim knowledge culture to the fight against covid-19.

Even though equality has been described as a simple concept, its meanings and principles have not been properly understood by the public. Similar treatment might not have a value of neutrality because, once the right to equality is related to and enforced by laws, its objectivity and impartiality can be challenged. The Malaysian government is making progress towards a safer and more equal environment for women and girls following the proposed new or amended legislation. These includes the anti-stalking law, the Sexual Harassment Act, and ending child marriage. Furthermore, the establishment of a Select Committee on Rights and Gender Equality in Parliament have been considered as a good step forward for equality. Indeed, implementation of policies such as childcare facilities in government offices as well as encouraging the private sector to follow suit are good moves towards creating more opportunities and encouraging the participation of women in the workforce. This paper explores the conceptual understanding of ‘equality’ globally and from the perspective of Islamic jurisprudence. This reflection is in line with Islamic belief that needs to reform the understanding of society based on the suggestion of Al-Quran and Islamic scholars. With this interpretation, this paper will explore Malaysia’s progress in empowering women and gender equality. Finally, this paper will suggest a way forward for Malaysia to empower women that have been marginalized and subordinated.

The Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi (AKP) which has a tendency towards Islam, but secular concurrently raises a question: what is the identity of the AKP? To date, this question is still being debated although generally, AKP has frequently been denoted as a party with an Islamic aspiration. Hence, this paper aims to revisit the identity of the AKP based on the framework of Islamic political movement. This paper fully adopted library research by examining sources related to the scope of the discussion. Ideologically, AKP makes conservative democracy as its ideology by harmonizing between conservative and liberal democratic values. The party also adheres to the secularism discourse although it meets almost all the characteristics of Islamic political movement for the Turkish context. Besides, it was found that the AKP has sided to religious interests in few issues. At the same time, AKP also has been resisted by military as the guardian of secular principle. This paper argues that the AKP is a party of its own identity, where it upholds the liberal version of secularism and tends to create an accommodative atmosphere for free religious practice. Finally, this paper offers some recommendations that can be considered for future studies.

The political and economic development was related apparently in the political and economic history of Terengganu. Since the first elections held in 1955 until the election of 1969, the people of Terengganu have shown their concern when choosing leaders whose they trust to develop the state, both physically and spiritually. This paper aims, to assess the attitudes and sensibilities of the people Terengganu in assessing the performance and personality of the political leaders who have been elected to represent them. The discussion in this paper is centered on the political developments ranging from elections held during the period. This discussion is based on government documents and resources from private collections and the results show that the ruling party will be evaluated by their success in achieving the goals as promised in the election manifestoes. In the manifestoes of the political parties contesting, the economic aspect is one of the key issues highlighted to gain support. Hence, the focus of this paper is to evaluate the economic development of Terengganu and the performance of the ruling party. This study found that economic development and the performance of elected leaders is a priority of the people Terengganu in choosing their political leaders and it was show in the electoral boxes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pada tahun 1812, pembangunan kubah di atas makam Syekh Muhammad Arsyad Al-Banjari di Astambul pada dasarnya merupakan penghargaan kepada ulama tersebut sebagai salah satu pemimpin Muslim yang berpengaruh. Namun, tujuan utama telah berubah sementara jumlah pengunjung telah meningkat. Kegiatan komersial tidak dapat dipisahkan dari orang-orang yang ingin menuai manfaat dan manfaatnya. Keberadaa sejumlah pengemis di desa ini menjadikan situs ziarah ini dikenal sebagai desa dengan banyak pengemis. Artikel ini bermaksud untuk mengidentifikasi keterlibatan sakralitas dalam objek peziarah dan peran kesakralan dalam aktivitas komersial dan pengemis di area makam Syekh Muhammad Arsyad, kota Astambul. Kajian ini dilakukan dengan observasi fenomenologis, wawancara dengan jamaah haji dan masyarakat setempat yang menunjukkan objek ziarah religius dan sisi komersialnya untuk membawa manfaat bagi pelestarian situs ziarah agama. Dalam penelitian ini, penulis melihat bahwa pelestarian makam yang disucikan telah menjadi generator ekonomi bagi masyarakat lokal dan pemerintah. Selain itu, perilaku mengemis dari penduduk desa telah meningkatkan identifikasi di antara para peziarah untuk menandai tempat ziarah ini sebagai tempat dengan banyak pengemis. In 1812, the building of the dome on the grave of Syekh Muhammad Arsyad Al-Banjari in Astambul city basically is a form of homage for the clergy as one of the influential Muslim. However, the main purpose changes in a row with an increasing number of visitors. Hence, commercial activities cannot be far from the people who want to gain the benefits and merits thereof. Moreover, a number of beggars in this village have made this pilgrimage site is well known as the village with a lot of beggars. This paper will focus on the shrine of Syekh Muhammad Arsyad Al-Banjari in Astambul city. The purpose of this paper is to identify the involvement of sacredness into the tourist object and to identify the role of government with commercial activity and beggars in the shrine of Syekh Muhammad Arsyad in Astambul city. In this respect, we carried out phenomenological observations, interviews with tourists and local people indicating religious tourist object and its commercial side to bring about benefits for the religious pilgrimage site preservation. In this study, the author sees that the preservation of sanctified tomb has become an economic generator for the local people and government. In another case, the begging behaviour of villagers has raised identification among the tourist to mark this pilgrimage place as the village with a lot of beggars.

The correlation between the 5S practices and homes is very significant. 5S is a system of quality management in the workplace housekeeping that originates in Japan. It is an acronym for the 5 key words with the initial letter 'S' in the Japanese language comprising Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu and Shitsuke. Meanwhile, a home is considered a fundamental part of environment and closely related to the quality of life. It is not only seen as a physical space, but it has become the cradle of social interaction and tranquility of community building. In Islam, the dwellings are substantial parts contributing to certain standard of quality and happiness in this life. This paper aims to discuss the practice of 5S and how it is related to the dwelling's environment according to the Islamic view. The significance of the study is to assess the 5S practices in the dwelling's environment. In addition, this research aims at ensuring that Islamic practices have also emphasized such approach despite having the 5S concept branding taking place in Japan. This is a qualitative study, whereby data collectionis done through library research. The discussion will be based on analysis of data inductively involving Islamic texts of the Quran and Sunnah. This description reveals that Islam prescribes a holistic guide about the dwellings. Recommendation of 5S practices in the dwelling's environment is not alienated but in line with the daily fiqh itself. Additionally, this article can prove the need for a practical 5S practices at the dwellings apart from the usual discussion on the practice merely focusing on organizational management and workplace culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyse the structure of the corporate waqf model applied in "Wakaf Selangor Muamalat" which has been jointly established by Perbadanan Wakaf Selangor (PWS) and Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad (BMMB). The paper is an exploratory study primarily based on library research and secondary information. Since "Waqf Selangor Muamalat" was only launched on September 27, 2012, the empirical data of this instrument is not yet available for analysis. BMMB is the first Malaysian Islamic banking institution which partakes in the accumulating and managing of the waqf fund for investment with the State Religious Council. The latest collaboration offers a new dimension of waqf corporate model in Malaysia, specifically as a banking model of corporate waqf. This is the first study on "Waqf Selangor Muamalat" structure since it was launched. The outcome of this study is expected to stimulate more corporate involvement of the banking sectors in activities related to waqf. The outcomes provide support to increase the socio-economic conditions of Muslims especially in health and education aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to examine whether Malaysian Islamic banks carry out income smoothing with regards to their distribution of depositors’ return. The paper also examines the extent Malaysian Islamic banks engage earnings and capital management in their distribution of depositors’ return. This empirical study uses balanced panel data from 16 Malaysian Islamic banks, for the period 2008-2012. The regression model is estimated using random effects specifications. The findings indicate that the earnings before tax, zakat, and provision have a positive but insignificant effect on distribution of depositors’ return (DDR) whilst the total capital before provision has a positive and significant effect on the DDR. These findings suggest that Islamic banks carry out income smoothing on the distribution of depositors’ return via capital management. Islamic banks also smooth their earnings through distribution of depositors’ return to avoid earnings troughs when earnings are poor. The findings shows prudence exercise among Malaysian Islamic banks with the objectives of mitigating displaced commercial risk (DCR), which involves massive withdrawal and bank runs risks.

Despite Waqf institutions being perceived as the social mechanism to facilitate equitable economic growth and progress for the ummah, getting its concept accepted and implemented by business organizations remains a challenge. A significant number of waqf institutions are also faced with recurring issues such as underdeveloped waqf properties, unproductive nature of the assets, inability to generate self-income, loose documenting system and mismanagement. Therefore, this paper aims to shed light on the drivers of the successful practice of corporate waqf of a selected waqf institution in Malaysia. Specifically, this paper examines the critical factors that continuously drive the performance of the corporate waqf institution. The framework for the case study was premised upon the tawhidic concept which stemmed from the Quran and Sunnah. In the case study, data were drawn from interviews with key informants, participant observations and reviews of documents. Data collected from multiple sources of evidence enabled the triangulation of data. The situation has enhanced the validity and reliability of the findings. NVivo software was used to code and analyze the data as well as to search for patterns and emerging themes. The results revealed that the case company successfully engaged in waqf practice as well as, sustain its performance. The essential criteria in managing and administering waqf funds at the case company can be linked to the jihad attitude, healthy mindset, an in-depth knowledge of Islamic and waqf fundamentals and strategic leadership. The findings put forth to advance the literature on corporate waqf besides provide insights for policymakers on the drivers for an effective and efficient management of waqf funds and sustainable corporate waqf performance.

This article posits two important claims. One is that naskh al-Qur’an is a real and actual phenomenon. Early sources from the Muslim classical era have been cited to justify this claim. The other is that, the notion and theory of naskh al-Qur’an allow for our rethinking of revelation in Islam. The theoretical discourse of Naskh al-Qur’an hinges on the basic idea and principle of the legal annulment of the law contained in or implied by a particular Qur’anic verse that has since been declared as abrogated. While the Qur’anic theory of abrogation may be about the law, in essence, it is as much about the meanings and dynamics of revelation in Islam. Various processes may be identified with the theory of naskh. Most notably are the processes of “re-revelation” and “revelatory alignment”. Re-revelation, or revelatory revision or realignment is something to be appreciated. These terms imply adaptation. Through highlighting textual instances in the Qur’an, this paper intends to demonstrate that Qur’anic revelation apparently came down not in isolation but in tandem with the interests and altering dynamics of an emerging and developing community. This idea of revelatory adaptation has far reaching consequences. At the theological level, it impacts on the current established notion of the immutability of the Qur’an. It in turn signifies the significance of naskh in determining the direction of fiqh and tafsir, and in revealing to us the theological nature of wahy. At the interpretive and more practical level, it influences the way the law may be understood and applied in Islam. Most importantly, at the philosophical level, it demythologizes the Qur’an. This paper is a preliminary attempt at reassessing the notion of wahy in Islam. It proposes a paradigm shift in the way we look at the Qur’an and the way we understand revelation in Islam.

Land and space are important assets that are required for economic development, the well-being of a society and the stability of a country. The existence of land allows for various mega projects to be planned and implemented, which in turn generate lucrative income that will contribute to the revenue of a country. Further, land and space are needed for the construction and improvement of the country's key infrastructure, in order to maintain its competitiveness at both regional and international levels. Conversely, limited sources of land in a country will have a negative impact on the administration of state affairs and economic expansion. Singapore is one such manifestation; its limited land area has led the government to introduce a land-saving policy, whereby projects with high returns are awarded by tearing down old buildings that either have or do not have any historical value. This policy also requires buildings that have no commercial value to be reduced in space or combined with other venues such as other places of worship. There is also a suggestion to unite different places of worship in a multi-storey building. Islamic law recognizes the importance of land in human life and has prescribed legal principles to effectively regulate the use of land, such as ihsan and waqf. This paper aims to examine the viability of integrating mosques with other places of worship. It employs the inductive and deductive methods in collecting and analysing the views of the fuqaha. The findings of this study, among others, show that it is permissible to place a mosque in a multi-storey building, subject to certain conditions being put in place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term 'environment' refers to both the natural world as well as the surroundings of and influences on a particular thing. The environment plays a major role and influence on human beings and their lives. This article discusses the influential role the environment plays in relation to human rights. Today, human rights is a global issue and the rights that are advocated range from the basic human needs of food and shelter to the right of freedom of speech to the more religiously contentious gay rights. This paper contends that the issue of human rights is closely connected to the environment or the social conditions of a particular community; specifically the values and principles which dominate and determine the worldview of that community or society. In the context of our global society, the issue of deciding the content and nature of human rights is extremely challenging, especially to religious societies and communities, since religious principles and values are no longer a dominant factor in determining what is right or wrong, good or bad. This is the situation faced by the Muslim ummah. Many of the rights advocated by the modern West which it considers to be fundamental, universal and human are contrary to Islamic principles and values. For example, the right of freedom of speech to insult and mock the sacred tenets in religious teachings, the right to gay marriages which run contrary to natural laws, and the right to exploit natural resources for economic development without regard to the rights of other creatures which also inhabit this world. Thus, the Muslim ummah is in a dilemma as to whether to adapt itself to the modern and secular global environment or change its environment to advocate its Islamic worldview and understanding of human nature, rights, responsibilities and freedom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important philosophical problems, at least in tradition of analytical philosophy, is the problem of proper names’ references. This paper intends to represent a new interpretation of the reference of proper names based on the theory of Principality of Existence developed by Mulla Sadra. He has mentioned the differences between nominal existence and infinitive existence. The latter is an abstract concept of being while nominal existence is the principal reality or the fact of things that has a real and a mental appearance. In Islamic Philosophy context we can consider the real appearance as essence (dhat) which is indeed special limitation of nominal existence and makes the entity of an existent like X. On the other hand mental appearance could be considered as quiddity (mahiyyah) which has an epistemic aspect re-presenter of essence. On this basis this paper argues that the proposition “X exists” could be turn to “nominal existence is X” and the nominal existence, as the unchangeable fact, would be the best alternative of a proper name’s reference. Also, changes on properties of an entity are caused by changes on limitations of existence without any on the reference of proper names.

This article highlights and discusses propositions in hadith and the Holy Quran could form social and economic bases of adult community education curriculum designed for the promotion of peace in Nigeria and the world. The paper is evoked by three interrelated reasons. First, in recent times violence appears to be springing up and spreading intractably in the world and especially in Nigeria which begs for sustainable solution. Second, while Islam is a religion of peace, there is wide misconception pointing to the contrary with the act of violence seemingly prevalent in Muslim dominated areas or perhaps being perpetuated by not well informed Muslims. Third, architects of violence in most instances are both educated and uneducated who may need to de-learn and re-learn Islamic position on promotion of peace through adult community education. Following the discussion, the paper draws implications for the development of relevant peace education curriculum and mode of delivery.

This research paper is aimed to study and discussion constant and the Variable in the Political Mtawla relationship with Shehabeyeen , Al-Sheikh Daher Al-Omar, and Ahmad Pasha Al- Jazzar in the 18th Century. First, the study addresses the relationship between Al- Mtawla and Shehabeyeen after they have taken over leadership of Druze in Jabal Libnan after the termination of the concerned ruling family. That war was the dominant relationship between the two parties especially when the Shehabeyeen represented the Ottoman ruler in the region. The study then discusses the Mtawla relationship with Al-Sheikh Daher Al-Omar which started cautiously and stressfully then ended with strong alliance. However, it ended when the Mtawla turned down the alliance. The paper concludes with e elaboration of the Mtawla’s relationship with Al-Jazzar. That relationship went through a cooperation stage that ended with a continuous war through which Al- Jazzar could put the Mtawla under his authority throughout the 18th century. The conclusion was that the bonds that combined elements of Jabal Amel are religious rather than political ones. The research followed the historical analytical approach.

This paper is based on the premise that Islamic education plays a significant role in producing an integrated personality of young generation in order to fulfil the needs of present society. This study is important to address the key educational changes in pedagogy, curricular and teaching approach that relate directly to the effectiveness of the implementation of Islamic Education in Islamic schools. Questions raised in this writing is whether and how Muslim schools have transformed to meet the changes and challenges of the globalizing world and what should be done to ensure Islamic schools meet current needs. Thus, it argues that there is a need for reform in contemporary Islamic schools with particular reference to the changes in the curriculum, teaching style, role of Islamic schools and gender participation. The paper considers the possibility of integrating new perspectives across the curriculum and outlines the integrated approach to ensure the quality and excellence of their graduates.

This research paper is aimed at studying and discussion on the extent of interest in Islam to looking after the ageing population as enshrined in the Qur’an and Sunnah. The ageing population nowadays is facing number of human rights problems including: problem of ʿAqīdah (religious belief), social, educational and economic as a result of the mistreatments mainly from family members of different communities towards this vulnerable group. The research paper seeks to find out the backgrounds of these problems, and to provide the appropriate solutions from the Quran and Sunnah perspectives. This will be done by explaining the Sharīʿah principles and ethical values prescribed by Islam in attending the welfare of the ageing population, and thus suggesting solutions that can be put into practice by our community order to reduce the problems facing the ageing population.

Various technological innovations in ICT have brought about profound changes in major aspects of education, namely the content delivery or pedagogy, and the structure or management of both formal and informal education. Current technology has also offered the ease of copying or reusing new innovation without the need to acknowledge or compensate the creators. New books, and methods or techniques can easily be copied and digital resources may speedily be scanned and forwarded without much regard to the creators’ effort or investment. These actions would potentially discourage creations of new innovations that would be useful for public lifelong learning. Understanding cultural perspectives in the relationship between the intellectual property system and religious works is significant since it analyzes the intersection of belief and culture with the application of the law. This paper explored the development of creativity and innovation in an informal education setting, specifically looking at Quranic teaching offered by private enterprises in Malaysia as a case study. This paper examined (a) to what extent the Quranic teaching and learning have been innovatively developed and (b) to what extent developers of new innovation in Quranic teaching and learning deem it necessary to protect their creations under intellectual property rights protection. This study utilized qualitative research, by way of document analysis gathered from reports, brochures, journal articles, newspapers, the Internet, websites and mass media focusing on the creativity and innovation in informal religious education. It also conducted semi-structured interviews with several companies that used new innovative methods in teaching the Quran. The findings revealed that although intellectual property protection is seen as a valuable business asset which provides legal recognition and acts as quality control, intellectual property protection plays a minimal role in encouraging innovation or the spread of Quranic teaching.

Ulum al-Qur'an is one of the earliest knowledge known among Muslims. It comprises of various essences of important sciences which help to improve the comprehension of verses in al-Qur'an. Among those sciences are pertaining to Nasikh Mansukh, Asbab Nuzul, Nuzul al-Qur'an, Makki and Madani verses and others. However recently, there is a tendency among the Liberal Muslims to use Hermeneutic for Quranic Interpretation and criticizing Ulum al-Qur'an. Hermeneutic is a science of interpreting the Bible which contains rules and law to complement interpretation. Therefore, it is the aim of this paper to discuss those criticisms which promote al-Qur'an as a mere product of culture but not as the pure words of God. This study applies the contents analysis on several of the Muslim Liberal works related to the Quranic Interpretation and Ulum al-Qur'an. The indings of this study show that those works have negative impact that can undermine the credibility of the knowledge of Quranic exegesis as well as to lower down the Islamic knowledges as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malay Muslims are regarded as loyal adherents of Shafi'i madhhab since they embraced Islam centuries ago. The strict adherence to the madhhab, however, sometimes leads them to some difficulties when some Shāfi'ī standpoints do not suit certain circumstances or needs. Hence, they start to look for viewpoints from other madhhabs, which are considered as more adaptable to their situation and need. However, this step is considered as a last resort when no acceptable answer is found in the madhhab. This move should also be differentiated from the idea of borderless fiqh propounded by the reformists to free the Malays from holding to a specific madhhab. Whilst occasionally adopting the views of other madhhabs is permissible by the majority of Malay ulamas, being free from holding to a certain madhhab is seen as tantamount to heresy, and, therefore, should not be allowed. There is a thin line between both situations and this could lead one to confusion if it is not properly understood. This paper attempts to analyse the issues based on the perspectives of the Islamic traditionalism and reformism. Although the conflicting thoughts of both parties on this particular issue are hard to reconcile, there are some common standpoints that can lead to positive collaboration between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the Islamic and scientific approaches in determining water quality classifications. It elaborates on the water classes, index ranges and parameters stipulated in the Water Quality Index-Department of the Environment (WQI-DOE) in the context of its strategies for controlling water pollution from point sources and provides a comparative analysiSWTh the tahārah-najāsah standards that are embedded in Islamic Hygienical Jurisprudence. Based on these research findings, the approach of Islamic Law is still relevant and applicable because of its universal and dynamic values. There is also compliance between the Islamic Law (conventional measurement) and WQI-DOE (scientific measurement) in standardizing and gauging water quality. The similarities can be clearly seen in both water quality parameters, especially concerning the aspects of acceptability (taste, odour and appearance). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wealth is needed for human survival. By nature, people always seek wealth. In Islam, wealth is owned by God and given to man to be dealt with properly. Man only acts as a trustee and manager who is responsible for managing the wealth. Therefore, it is the duty of every Muslim to plan and manage the wealth as prudently as possible based on Islamic law. However, greed and human preoccupation of wealth sometimes lead to the overruling of the halal and haram principle. Unmanaged wealth leads to waste, fraud or freezing of the wealth itself. This is extremely detrimental to wealth owners and the Muslims at large. Based on this, the paper attempts to discuss wealth management in Islam by focusing on the aspect of values. It is important to ensure that the wealth comes from ḥalāl (legitimate) sources, spent in the way of Allah, systematically planned, productively developed and ethically managed to be a provision in the future and the hereafter. Therefore, values, such as gratitude, accountability, wise, fair, diligent, productive and futuristic need to be appreciated by every Muslim. These values will guide the planning, spending and managing of wealth wisely, in order to ensure one's well-being in the world and the hereafter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article surveys the feminist movement in Islam by delving into its origin, development and diversities within the Islamic tradition. The article starts its survey from the very beginning of the Islamic religion to the time after the demise of the Prophet and the modern and contemporary periods. Using the historical and analytical methods, the paper looks at the spectrums of the Muslim women struggle for their rights and the different dimensions that this struggle has taken at different times in the historical progression of the Islamic religion and the result of this on the religion itself. The submission of the paper is that, just as in other feminist movements from other traditions, the Islamic feminist movement is diverse and varied in its approach to the issue of claiming the rights of Muslim women. There are those who advocate for the reinterpretation and restructuring of the religion to meet modern day demands and views of women and because of their feeling of a strong sense of rejection and they hold that the Islamic religion should abdicate talking it views about women and embrace modern reforms concerning the rights of women in the society. On the other hand, there are others who want the religion to remain as it is while the rights of women are respected and given due regards as was the case during the time of the Prophet. Thus, all these points to the diversity of the discourse in the Islamic Tradition and speak of the fact that women’s right is a very important issue in the contemporary Muslim societies which needs serious attention from Muslim scholars and leaders alike.

Muslim counselor in school is a professional guide who can help schools to reduce students’ misbehavior and to implement Islamic values as a way of life. The Islamic approach is the approach implemented by the school counselor in dealing student’s misbehavior. However, the practice of Islamic approach using by Muslim counselor at school in dealing with students’ misbehavior has not been studied extensively. This paper is aimed to discuss and analyze the Islamic approach adopted by the Muslim counselor as an effort to deal the students’ misbehavior in secondary schools in Klang District, Selangor. Data in this paper were collected through a quantitative survey research. By using purposive sampling, a total of 73 Muslim counselors from secondary schools in the Klang District were selected as respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques. The study shows that Muslim counselor in schools has implemented the Islamic preventive approach through programs such as anti-smoking talks, HIV and AIDS talks, self-identity courses, leadership courses, religious talks, and visiting program to rehabilitation center. This study also shows that Muslim counselor practicing Islamic preventive approach in dealing students’ misbehavior such as guiding students to perform solat fardu five times a day, to respect human being and environment, to behave with persistence, to commit with a good or ma`ruf deed, and to select a good mass media. As a whole, the Islamic preventive approach by the Muslim counselor has given a huge implication especially to develop an Islamic counseling index in dealing students’ misbehavior.

In their observations, contemporary scientists have believed in transformism which claims whole natural world is always in evolvement. This paper investigates whether Mulla Sadra’s philosophical opinions are consistent with this theory or not. The method of this research is analytical-descriptive. The conclusion is that four fundamentals: the principality of existence, the analogical unity of existence, the substantial movement and gradual increase in intensity of existence, are the main foundations of Mulla Sadra’s philosophy. The first three principles justify the forth one which is ‘the evolutional movement of the natural creatures’. According to Mulla Sadra, nature is in-itself a movement and movement is not limited to accident, but he believes that movement is the mood of the nature. He believes that nature is, therefore, a continuous whole that moves from its inferiority to its superiority, in the same way as a child grows. In this paper it is also proved that the evolution of the creatures does not contradict the existence of God and religious texts.

As value-free economics is under serious attacks, Islamic economics seems to have a bright future. Unfortunately, Islamic economics is facing an identity-crisis. This paper seeks to perform an inspection on the conceptualization of the ‘Islamic economic man’ by employing a discursive method. This paper first provides a reality-check exercise which reveals that Islamic economics institution’s weak social performance originates from the absence of homo Islamicus. Thence, this paper searches for a universal truth about Muslims as economic agents. Surprisingly, this study has found that they are neither homo Islamicus nor homo economicus. Thus, the most important implication of this paper is the replacement of homo Islamicus as the basis of the micro-foundation for Islamic economics. Instead, the concept of ‘true man’ is proposed. Therefore, future research may develop the specific details of this ‘true man’ for Islamic economics to be a more reliable social science.

The paper consists of seven sub-sections namely, the introduction, a flash on the prevalence of tribal proclivity in Nigeria, causes of tribal proclivity among Nigerians and its effects. Other aspect of the paper includes the Islamic perspective on tribal proclivity in Nigeria, recommendations and conclusion. The introduction briefly appraises the historical composition of Nigeria in the early nineteen century and its amalgamation in the year 1914. Reference is being made in the paper to cases of tribal proclivity in Nigeria while the causes of tribal penchant include unemployment, selfishness of some politicians, lack of patience and endurance by citizens in their relationship among themselves. Tribal proclivity the paper affirms results into insecurity of lives and properties, portrays evidence of lack of unity and bad governance. The paper examines some relevant verses and prophetic traditions in a bid to redress the situation and recommends that the government and the well to problem of unemployment in the nation. In addition, religious do people in the society should join hands together towards addressing the scholars and other orientation bodies must reorient people towards peaceful coexistence among themselves.

Islam presents a unique and comprehensive view of the concept of society. For, it perceives it as an association formed in accordance with the Divine revelation contained in Quran and the Sunnah of the prophet, synthesising material, and the spiritual aspects of human life. It views society as an organic whole, where all aspects of life are considered as a component part of the body hence, negating sectarianism and racism. Therefore, this paper attempts to illuminate the concept of society from Islamic perspective and analyse the nature and characteristics of social order in Islam. It also throw some light on the social principles devised by Islam for the formation of an integrated social system, and the measures for nourishment and nurturing of the internal and external aspects of human nature. Using an analytical approach the paper concludes that Islam presents a dynamic conception of the society embodying universal characteristics hence, capable of transforming all humanity to a single brotherhood.

One of the most vibrant contemporary philosophical debates concerns the definition, and defence, of religious pluralism. The philosophers who address such a topic usually hold widely divergent views regarding its exact definition and the arguments through which it can be upheld. The absence of a general consensus notwithstanding, the debate on religious pluralism has ‘de facto’ become an important area of dialogue between different religions in general, and between Christianity and Islam in particular. At stake in the present paper is the discussion of pluralism developed by the US-American-Persian philosopher Muhammad (Gary Carl) Legenhausen (b. 1953), that he presents as a criticism of the views of the late British theologian John Harwood Hick (1922-2012). Hick developed his views mainly influenced by Christianity, yet he also took into account some ideas advanced by Muslim authors. Legenhausen, a convert to Islam, puts forth his own version of pluralism in the framework of a discussion of the concept as it has emerged within Christianity, and advances a refutation of Hick's view complementary to his own theory of pluralism. The aim of the present pages is to offer an overview of Legenhausen’s contribution and discuss some of its possible implications and premises. In other words, rather than producing a defence of Legenhausen’s theory, this study is to analyse the logic behind and beyond his specific ‘Muslim proposal’ and explain what some of its unstated premises might be, as well as the consequences of fully embracing such stance, for philosophers, – not only Muslims ones –, interested in understanding religion from a religious point of view and in advocating that religious differences should not turn into a reason of animosity. The paper is divided into two main sections. The first one reconstructs Legenhausen's version of religious pluralism, while especially recalling the points with which it is presented as clashing with Hick's one. The second section is dedicated to the critical assessment.

The business characteristic of Islamic banks is the implementation of Islamic business ethics. Parallel with the trend of increasing preference to ethical institution, Islamic banks should put this as its competitive edge toward its competitor conventional competitor banks. However, only few previous studies discussed about the implementation of Islamic business ethics within Islamic banks and none suggested how to measure such implementation. This paper is a study of the literature on ethics and Islamic business ethics as the first step in developing a measurement tool of Islamic business ethics implementation within Islamic banks. This paper synthesizes the dimensions of Islamic business ethics that is excavated from the Quran and Sunna, being proposed by previous studies. There are seven dimensions, namely unity of God, benevolence, justice and equity, sincere, equilibrium, trusteeship and responsibility. Subsequently, this paper outlines these dimensions into 21 items. The opportunity of future empirical study is recommended at the end of this paper.

Essentially all theories used in the West are secular based. This is problematic for Western Muslim researchers who investigate the world through an Islamocentric lens. This paper was developed as part of an action research project that investigated Islamic literature-based character development with elementary school children. In developing a theoretical framework Critical Theory and critical pedagogy were initially researched, however, their Marxist origins conflicted with an Islamic worldview. As a result I researched Islamic Critical Theory and critical Islamic pedagogy. Whilst Islamic pedagogy is being used in the West in some circles, the concept of Islamic Critical Theory was mentioned by only three scholars: Kazmi, Sharify-Funk and Sadek. Seeking a theoretical framework that was aligned to the Islamic worldview led me to develop a version of Islamic Critical Theory based on Horkheimer’s three criteria definition. I argue that this type of Islamic Critical Theory can critique every aspect of life and present a solution that is in harmony with the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah and can lead to emancipation, transformation and a better life. This paper essentially demonstrates how Islamic Critical Theory is an emancipatory theory. The paper begins with a discussion of Critical Theory and critical pedagogy to show how they inform Islamic Critical Theory. It then discusses how Kazmi, Sharify-Funk and Sadek use the term. It then enumerates on the characteristics of Islamic Critical Theory and ties these to give historic origins dating to the re-emergence of the Islamic message in the Arabian Peninsula.

Architectural designs contribute as one of the main factors that should be considered in minimizing negative impacts in planning and structural development in buildings such as in mosques. In this paper, the ergonomics perspective is revisited which hence focuses on the conditional factors involving organisational, psychological, social and population as a whole. This paper tries to highlight the functional and architectural integration with ecstatic elements in the form of decorative and ornamental outlay as well as incorporating the building structure such as wall, domes and gates. This paper further focuses the mathematical aspects of the architectural designs such as polar equations and the golden ratio. These designs are modelled into mathematical equations of various forms, while the golden ratio in mosque is verified using two techniques namely, the geometric construction and the numerical method. The exemplary designs are taken from theSabah Bandaraya Mosque in Likas, Kota Kinabalu and the Sarawak State Mosque in Kuching,while the Universiti Malaysia Sabah Mosque is used for the Golden Ratio. Results show thatIslamic architectural buildings and designs have long had mathematical concepts and techniques underlying its foundation, hence, a modelling approach is needed to rejuvenate these Islamic designs.

With the collapse of many organizations, many researchers are increasingly paying attention to such phenomenon. But ethical issues are not always clear cut; there are many grey areas that need to be threaded with care by organizations. To determine whether an action or decision is ethically carried out, ethical theories, developed mainly by Western scholars, are the current theoretical framework organizations have at their disposal. Theories such as relativism, utilitarianism, egoism, deontology, the divine command theory, and the virtue ethics, are all products of Western understanding of what ethics are and how they are applicable to help one’s decision making process. Despite their utility, this paper intends to argue that the Western concepts and understanding of what ethics are limited and incomprehensive in explaining what is right and what is wrong. In its place, this paper argues that to understand the concepts of ethics that can extend beyond time and space. It has to be analysed from an Islamic perspective. Toward this purpose, this paper will compare and contrast between Islamic and Western perspectives of ethics, and highlight the main weaknesses and limitations of the former. Then, an argument on why Islam can provide the best understanding of ethics will be made.