PETALING JAYA: The Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) announced Syed Kamarulzaman Syed Kabeer as its new chairman, replacing Tan Sri Daud Bakar effective Feb 15, as confirmed by Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.
According to a statement on Thursday (Feb 15) from the Minister in Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), the appointment was made following the consent given by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim.
Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar mentioned that Syed Kamarulzaman had worked as an electronic and computer engineer at Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) for over 33 years.
He further added that Syed Kamarulzaman is a respected Islamic figure and intellectual with extensive experience in various fields, including science and technology. He has also served as a panel of thinkers and advisors to several organizations, including the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) and the Faculty of Sharia and Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (Usim).
Syed Kamarulzaman is currently the president of the Malaysian Astronomy and Syarie Association. He is also well-known for his involvement in designing and building sundials for almost 15 years, with his sundial design winning international awards.
In 2023, Syed Kamarulzaman was honored with the Maulidur Rasul Award for his contribution to the field of Islamic astronomy in Malaysia.
Mohd Na’im expressed his gratitude to Tan Sri Daud Bakar for his service as the MAIWP chairman for the 2021-2024 session and wished him the best. He also emphasized the value of Syed Kamarulzaman’s experience as an Islamic figure and intellectual in continuing the excellence of MAIWP.
All members of the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) conveyed their prayers for Tan Sri Daud Bakar and expressed hope that he will continue to carry out his responsibilities with guidance from Allah for the benefit of Islam and Muslims.
