BANGI: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called for an increase in allowances for Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) preachers to be at par with the country's minimum wage of RM1,500.
Zahid said these preachers were previously volunteers but Jakim, as well as state religious departments and councils made an initiative to hire them on a contract basis.
"But their allowances are low. I urge that their allowances for preaching activities and to approach new Muslims be increased.
"Their allowances should be at least the same rate as minimum wage, even though they are on contract."
He said this at the Mualaf Madani Convention here, today.
Earlier, Zahid read a speech on behalf of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who said religious bodies played an important role in ensuring the dissemination of proper Islamic understanding.
This, he said, could enhance the faith of Muslims in their religion, and provide clarity and avoid misconceptions among non-Muslims.
Acknowledging the efforts of these religious bodies, Anwar said the preachers had been placed all over the country and continued to strive to fulfill their duties despite low job grades and being on contract.
