Former Mufti Honoured at Maal Hijrah Gala

The Casuarina Convention Centre in Ipoh was filled with reverence last night as Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah presented the Perak Maal Hijrah Personality Award to Datuk Seri Wan Zahidi Wan Teh, the state’s former Mufti. At 84, Wan Zahidi’s acceptance symbolised more than personal accolade; it marked a lifetime of guiding the Muslim community through periods of rapid social change.
His tenure as Mufti was defined by efforts to modernise religious education, promote inter‑faith dialogue and support charitable initiatives that bridged urban and rural divides.
The Maal Hijrah celebration, commemorating the Prophet’s migration to Medina, provides a cultural backdrop that underscores the values of sacrifice, resilience and community cohesion – principles that Wan Zahidi has embodied throughout his career.
By honouring him, Perak not only recognises past service but also signals a continued commitment to nurturing leaders who can navigate the delicate balance between tradition and contemporary societal needs.

Readers see how honouring a respected religious figure can reinforce communal bonds and inspire civic responsibility. It highlights the role of cultural celebrations in recognising contributions that shape social harmony, offering a model for other regions seeking to celebrate inclusive leadership.

The award underscores the importance of acknowledging leaders who champion religious education and inter‑faith understanding. It encourages a culture where service to community is publicly valued, potentially motivating younger scholars and activists to pursue similar paths of inclusive leadership.