“The future generations, in that case, would celebrate their diversity,” added ISSI Chief Executive Amran Muhammad in a statement. “We live in a borderless global village.”
“Our people should be equipped to deal with great civilizations and other parts of the world through knowledge of their history, thoughts, culture and religions.”
The Civilization subject was pivotal in preparing future generations for a diverse world, he reiterated. Alternatively, there would be insecurity and awkwardness and culture shock. The people should in fact be proud of their identity and continue to observe their religious traditions.
Through such a subject, continued Azman, there can be clarification and prevention of religious confusion. Most importantly, he argued, a subject on Civilization protects future citizens from the “threat of secularization and globalization”. These, he charged, “eliminate the existential (ontological) manifestations and religions, be it Islam or others”.
ISSI was lauding a proposal by the Chairman of the Committee to Promote Interfaith Understanding and Harmony (JKMPKA), Azman Amin Hassan, that the Ministry of Education introduce “Interfaith Understanding” or “Kenali Agama Lain” in schools. Azman reckons that it would enable students to deepen their understanding of the religions in the country and thereby develop respect for their adherents.
He warned the doctrinal and dogmatic approach was a dangerous pitfall if implemented without wisdom. “It would compound misunderstanding and confusion. It could make everyone feel uncomfortable.”
The first step, said Azman, should begin with the present compulsory course in public universities, namely Islamic Civilization and Asian Civilization (TITAS). “This course should serve as a basis to determine the content of the new Civilization subject.”
However, those who lack knowledge and expertise on civilizational topics might not be able to demonstrate objectivity in their approach, he cautioned. “They might come across as biased.”
Acknowledging growing dissatisfaction with TITAS, he hastened to add that its content should be improved. “This can be done by the introduction of global and contemporary themes such as the threat of extremism and terrorism.”
ISSI believes that “Kenali Agama Lain” must be presented within a broader civilizational context. The objective should be to highlight pivotal points and the achievements of great civilizations arising from the teaching of religions.
Such an approach, it’s reckoned, would employ a combination of historical perspectives, thought processes (critical thinking), cultural analyses and religious worldviews. “It would encourage a deeper appreciation and understanding of religions,” said Azman.
Interfaith Understanding, as proposed, was rather doctrinal and dogmatic, he summed up.