Sectarian Differences Must Not Divide Us — The Enemy Thrives on Our Disunity

Majlis Perundingan Pertubuhan Islam Malaysia (Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organizations) – MAPIM
Space U8 , Eco Mall , Bukit Jelutong , Shah Alam , Selangor Malaysia
azmiabdulhamid58@gmail.com
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Joint Statement
18th June 2025

STATEMENT IN SUPPORT SHAYKH AL-AZHAR’S CALL FOR UMMAH UNITY
Sectarian Differences Must Not Divide Us — The Enemy Thrives on Our Disunity

The Muslim world today faces unprecedented challenges — brutal occupation in Palestine, escalating threats against Iran, sectarian conflicts tearing communities apart, and a global order that demonizes Islam. In this critical moment, the voice of reason, wisdom, and unity must prevail.

We strongly endorse and echo the statement made by Shaykh al-Azhar Ahmad al-Tayyeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, who declared:

“The difference between us and our Shia brothers is a difference of thought and opinion, not a division of religion. The Islamic Ummah today is in desperate need of unity — in strength and in vision — to confront the challenges of our time and to triumph over the enemies of the Ummah.”

This declaration is not just a scholarly position — it is a call to conscience for every Muslim:

✅ To rise above sectarianism and reject divisive rhetoric;
✅ To embrace intra-Ummah dialogue, cooperation, and solidarity;
✅ To recognize the common enemies of our people — Zionist colonialism, imperialist aggression, and Islamophobic campaigns.

The enemies of the Ummah exploit every internal division to weaken our cause. While they unite to dominate, we fracture over differences that should never have become tools of hatred.

We call upon:

● Religious scholars, across all schools of thought, to lead the Ummah towards reconciliation and mutual respect.

● Political leaders to build diplomatic bridges, not walls of mistrust, among Muslim nations.

● The youth of the Ummah to reject extremism and sectarian provocation, and work for justice, dignity, and unity.

Let this be a turning point.
Let the voice of Al-Azhar ignite a renewed commitment to healing our divisions and forging a united front in the face of oppression.

Unity is not an option — it is a divine obligation.

Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid
President MAPIM
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Datuk Seri Syekh Ahmad Awang
Chairman Alliance of World Mosque in Defence of Al Aqsa

Dato’ Wira Syekh Abdul Ghani Samsudin

Datuk Wan Muhammad Syekh Abdul Aziz
Presiden Ulama Association of Malaysia