Fatimah: Chinese Muslim converts gaining wider acceptance in Sarawak

The winner of the ‘ketupat’ weaving competition receives her prize, as Fatimah (third right), as Mortadha (right), Lukhman (left) and other guests look on.KUCHING (April 13): Chinese Muslim converts in Sarawak are now seeing greater societal acceptance, following a shift in public perceptions and earlier misconceptions.In stating this, Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah acknowledged that the early generation of Chinese Muslim converts faced significant challenges after embracing Islam, especially during the 1980s.

“There were misconceptions that Chinese Muslim converts embraced Islan solely to gain business licences or secure government contracts.“Some parents even feared losing their children after converting to Islam,” she said.Fatimah said this when met at the Hari Raya open house hosted by Persatuan Kebajikan Tiong Hua Islam Sarawak (PERKTHIS) at Dewan Sri Mahligai, Jalan Crookshank here today.



Commenting further, Fatimah commended the perseverance of pioneer converts, particularly members of Majma, for their success in overcoming adversity and proving their sincerity.“You have proven that you have accepted Islam in good faith and that family relationships remain intact despite the change,” she said.Fatimah, who also serves as PERKTHIS advisor, highlighted the association’s role in supporting converts.

“We now have a forum within PERKTHIS where we can carry out charity work, help those in need, and bring joy to others,” she said.She also noted that Chinese Muslim converts are permitted to retain their surnames and that many continue to prioritise education for their children.“The state government, through PERKTHIS, will continue to work closely with members to provide necessary social support,” she assured.

On another related development, Fatimah announced that the state government has approved a parcel of land at Jalan Diplomatik for the construction of the Chinese Muslim Cultural Centre.“This centre will serve as a home for Chinese Muslims, promote inclusivity and unity in Sarawak’s multicultural society, and act as an Islamic outreach and education hub,” she said.The objectives of PERKTHIS, she remarked, were to unite and strengthen the Chinese Muslim community in Sarawak, defend their welfare and interests, and foster collaboration with other Islamic organisations across Malaysia.

“PERKTHIS is not just an association – it is a family. It provides a platform for struggle, growth, and meaningful contributions to society,” she added.Also present at the event were PERKTHIS president Mortadha Lau Abdullah and chairman Lukhman Ting.

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