November 7 Declared National Working Holiday Honoring Muslim Filipinos — Marcos
Signed into law on July 9, 2025, Republic Act No. 12228 designates the day as Sheikh Karim'ul Makhdum Day, commemorating the arrival of the Arab missionary who introduced Islam to the Philippines and built the first mosque in Tawi-Tawi.
The law affirms the government's commitment to religious inclusivity and recognizes the essential contributions of Muslim Filipinos to Philippine history and identity. Related Articles
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Al Etihad
an hour ago
- Al Etihad
The Jurisprudence of Coexistence
28 July 2025 04:37 Imam Mohammad Tawhidi*The modern world is shaped by a complex interplay of faith traditions, doctrinal schools, and ideological frameworks; as such, the jurisprudence of coexistence between peoples emerges as a foundational pillar in achieving societal stability and contributes meaningfully to the flourishing of civilisations. Diversity and human difference are not incidental outcomes but are among the enduring divine laws governing creation. The need for a jurisprudential framework that reorganises the relationship between human beings on the basis of justice, dignity, and mutual respect becomes increasingly urgent. This is the very essence of the jurisprudence of coexistence, which stands as one of the highest expressions of Islamic Sharīʿa in its engagement with human plurality. It does not call for compromising principles or abandoning identity; rather, it is a field of knowledge unto itself; one that governs relations with others on religious, cultural, and civilisational grounds according to the higher objectives of Islamic law (maqasid al- Sharīʿa) and its authoritative rulings. Its purpose is to cultivate societal peace, prevent conflict, and contribute to the building of a shared human civilisation. God Almighty created people different in tongues, colours, and beliefs, and did not make them one religious community. This diversity is a permanent cosmic law. As the Qur'an states: 'Had your Lord willed, He could have made all mankind one community. But they will not cease to differ' (Surah Hud, 11:118).Coexistence is the civilisational response to this diversity, and extends beyond religious pluralism to encompass ethnic, cultural, doctrinal, and intellectual differences. Islam laid the groundwork for this inclusive vision from its inception, insisting that there is no compulsion in religion, legislating humane interaction with non-Muslims, and encouraging kindness and excellence toward them. Coexistence, in this sense, is not a passive condition of endurance or tolerance; it is an active behaviour and ethical orientation that produces an atmosphere of cooperation, solidarity, and shared pursuit of the common good. Islam's call for coexistence was not born out of weakness or temporary convenience but stems from its intrinsic principles that prioritise the preservation of life, intellect, religion, and human the most dangerous causes of conflict in some countries today is the lack of awareness about this jurisprudence and the deviation of religious or political discourse toward exclusion and arrogance. Such deviations generate environments saturated with hatred and hostility. By contrast, grounding societies in the jurisprudence of coexistence contributes to building stable communities that respect diversity and invest in it as a resource for development and Principles of the Jurisprudence of Coexistence:1. Religious and Intellectual FreedomFreedom of belief lies at the heart of the jurisprudence of coexistence. It is the cornerstone upon which all other elements of coexistence rest. God Almighty granted human beings the freedom of choice and affirmed this in His Book: 'There is no compulsion in religion' (Surah al-Baqarah, 2:256). This verse stands as a fundamental basis for respecting religious and intellectual convictions so long as these convictions do not become tools of aggression or corruption. Sharīʿa safeguards the invitation to guidance through explanation, not coercion or humiliation. It upholds the principle that belief must arise from conviction, not imposition.2. Justice for AllJustice in Islam is an absolute value, not conditional upon one's religion, colour, or nationality. It is a divine command that transcends communal boundaries. The Holy Qurʾān states: 'Let not the hatred of a people cause you to act unjustly. Be just; that is nearer to piety' (Surah al-Ma'idah, 5:8). Justice, in the framework of coexistence, requires that every person be treated according to their inherent dignity and rights; not based on allegiance or personal preference. In the Sharīʿa, justice is the balance that sustains the world, and it is due to all without exception.3. Respect for Human DignityRespect for human dignity is a foundational tenet of Islamic law and is not limited to Muslims alone. God states: 'Indeed, We have honoured the children of Adam' (Surah al-Isra', 17:70), a declaration that affirms the inviolable dignity of every human being regardless of faith. This universal honour imposes on society a duty to protect human life, belief systems, property, and to prohibit any violation or degradation under the guise of religion, ethnicity, or ideology. The protection of human dignity is an obligation that extends across all of society's institutions.4. Human ToleranceTolerance does not imply erasing identities or remaining silent in the face of falsehood. Rather, it entails bearing the existence of the other, accepting their right to be, and interacting with them in a manner characterised by civility and moral integrity. Disagreement, under this principle, must never become a pretext for hostility. True tolerance generates cohesive communities, built upon mutual respect, where collaboration toward the common good is possible without eroding distinctive cultural or doctrinal identities. This form of human tolerance is deeply rooted in the Prophetic tradition and the ethics of Islamic principles are not merely theoretical aspirations. They are historically lived realities that have been actualised by various peoples under Islamic governance grounded in the jurisprudence of coexistence. A prominent contemporary example is the United Arab Emirates, whose visionary leadership has established an atmosphere of peace and allowed adherents of various religions to practice their rituals and live in safety and reassurance; emulating the legacy of the Prophet Mohammad (pbuh), the Prophet of mercy. Observers frequently praise the policies of the UAE as a vibrant model of coexistence between Muslims and non-Muslims, built on mutual respect and legal protections that prioritise citizenship without dissolving religious or cultural the broader civilisational context, coexistence is a prerequisite for the emergence of cities, the development of the sciences, and the exchange of knowledge. Civilisations do not thrive in isolation or closed environments but grow when they interact with others and exchange ideas and experiences. History bears witness that Islamic civilisation reached its peak when it welcomed scholars from diverse backgrounds and produced intellectual schools that advanced both religious and worldly sciences. Coexistence, in this comprehensive sense, is more than a moral value; it is a necessary condition for social peace and a driver of civilisational progress. In its absence, hatred arises, societies fragment, and the machinery of construction and advancement grinds to a jurisprudence of coexistence, therefore, is a realistic appeal for the establishment of stable societies based on respect, pluralism, and justice. It is the jurisprudence of the future, because the future cannot be built on exclusion, but on recognition; not on hegemony, but on partnership; not on violence, but on peace. In the enduring words of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, May Allah bless his soul: 'To treat every person, no matter what his creed or race, as a special soul, is a mark of Islam.' *The writer is a Parliamentary Advisor and Research Partner with the think-tank TRENDS Research and Advisory
Middle East Eye
9 hours ago
- Middle East Eye
Saudi forces arrest pilgrim for raising Palestinian flag in Mecca
Saudi security forces arrested an Egyptian pilgrim at the Grand Mosque in Mecca after he raised the Palestinian flag beside the Kaaba and called for an end to Gaza's siege and starvation. The actions by the Saudi authorities has triggered widespread condemnation. Footage shared online shows the man crying out 'Wa Islamah!', a phrase used historically to express anguish when Islam or Muslims are under threat, as he pleads for urgent intervention to help Gaza's starving population. The emotional scene, captured and circulated on social media, shows the pilgrim saying 'the children of Gaza are dying. O Muslims!'. Seconds later, Saudi officers appear and detain him inside the mosque. The incident has reignited debate over Saudi Arabia's strict bans on political expression at Islam's holiest sites. Authorities prohibit all slogans and symbols, including national flags, during Hajj and Umrah, arguing such measures protect the sanctity of worship. However, critics accuse the kingdom of using these restrictions to stifle support for Palestine and suppress expressions of Muslim solidarity. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters In 2023, a British pilgrim was detained for wearing a white keffiyeh and a Palestinian-coloured prayer bead. Beyond Mecca, Saudi authorities have reportedly launched a broader crackdown on citizens who criticise Israel or voice solidarity with Gaza online. Since Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman rose to power in 2017, rights groups have documented a surge in arrests linked to peaceful speech, particularly posts viewed as critical of the kingdom's foreign policy or regional alliances. As Israel's war on Gaza continues, the arrest in Mecca has deepened concerns that public support for Palestine is being criminalised in Saudi Arabia.
Sharjah 24
18 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
Arab Parliament for the Child holds session on cultural identity
Cultural identity theme affirms commitment to Arab heritage The session, titled 'The Cultural Identity of the Arab Child', reaffirmed the Arab Parliament for the Child's commitment to instilling cultural and civilisational belonging in the hearts of the emerging generation and enhancing the presence of the Arabic language, along with authentic customs and traditions, in the face of cross-cultural challenges seen globally. High-level patronage and Arab support for children's empowerment The session was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and with the support of Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States. This reflects unified Arab support to empower children to freely express themselves and participate in societal and humanitarian issues within robust institutional and parliamentary frameworks. Omani child chairs session to promote youth leadership The session was chaired by Elias Al-Maani from the Sultanate of Oman, President of the Arab Parliament for the Child, reaffirming the Parliament's approach to enabling children to assume leadership responsibilities during parliamentary sessions, and to refine their discussion and expression skills while promoting initiative and participation. Secretary-General stresses urgency of identity dialogue The session began with a speech by Ayman Othman Al-Barout, Secretary-General of the Arab Parliament for the Child, who welcomed the attendees and emphasised the importance of raising the issue of cultural identity during this critical stage of Arab childhood awareness. He said: 'The question of identity is no longer a cultural luxury; it has become an existential necessity to protect the self from dissolution in a fast-changing world. We believe that cultivating this awareness must begin in childhood, as envisioned by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, who made the child's development a priority more than five decades ago.' Al-Barout added that the Parliament today serves as a unified Arab platform for promoting identity and developing children's skills through training, empowerment, and active participation. He highlighted the success of the Child Parliamentary Leadership Diploma, organised in collaboration with the University of Sharjah, as an inspiring model for participant development. President of the Parliament reaffirms Arab identity Elias Al-Maani, President of the Arab Parliament for the Child, delivered a speech expressing his pride in holding the session in 'Sharjah of Arabism.' He declared: 'We proclaim from under this dome: our identity is our banner, our compass towards progress without compromising our authenticity... Today, we carry the message of generations, stand confidently on the soil of history, and extend our hands to shape the future with our culture, language, and values.' Parliamentarians highlight language, media and education roles The session witnessed strong engagement from members, who presented diverse contributions addressing the importance of preserving the Arabic language, and the role of the family, school, and media in safeguarding cultural identity and confronting digital and foreign cultural challenges. Several speakers stressed that the Arabic language is the backbone of identity and that a child's connection to their mother tongue must be strengthened through educational curricula and cultural activities. Others pointed to the importance of developing media content tailored to children that reflects Arab values and presents positive role models in an engaging and safe environment. Joint recommendations call for pan-Arab action The members of the session affirmed that preserving the cultural identity of the Arab child can only be achieved through joint and organised Arab efforts, stemming from a shared vision aimed at safeguarding the Arabic language, culture, and collective consciousness of future generations. In this context, a set of purposeful recommendations was presented, most notably: the development of a dedicated Arab digital platform for children that offers interactive content to strengthen the Arabic language and promote cultural identity, as well as a proposal to establish an Arab National Day for Cultural Identity, followed by an annual week in schools and community centres to instil a sense of belonging in young people. Creative content and awards to support cultural values The recommendations also highlighted the importance of supporting the production of creative content such as stories, films and games that embody Arab values. They proposed launching a dedicated award for Arab childhood in the field of cultural identity, to honour individual and institutional initiatives that contribute to this vital area. 'The Arab child does not ask for much… only to see themselves in their stories, to hear their voice in their language, and to grow up proud of who they are.' Folk traditions and digital tools to strengthen heritage Speakers also stressed the need to connect children with their heritage through art, music, folktales, and national occasions, given their significant role in reinforcing a sense of belonging. They called for the creation of specialised Arabic-language digital educational platforms that align with the times and nourish identity rather than diminish it. Insight from Mauritania: heritage as a living practice Parliamentarian Sidi Mohamed from Mauritania emphasised that preserving the cultural identity of the Arab child is not a luxury of thought but an existential necessity. He warned that nations which forgo the identity of their children are essentially burying their own history. He referred to Mauritania's continued use of traditional educational tools like the wooden tablet—not due to technical limitations, but out of a deep-rooted commitment to heritage. He advocated for integrating traditional heritage into school curricula and for the enhanced role of media and theatre in fostering belonging and instilling pride in the Arabic language and history. He also stressed that Arabic should be associated with joy and creativity, rather than with heavy memorisation and exam anxiety. Libyan perspective: identity as the foundation of character Parliamentarian Faraj Omar Faraj Al-Tekko from Libya noted that identity is not merely a slogan or cultural symbol, but the essence that shapes a child's thinking, behaviour, and personality. He called for the creation of an educational and cultural environment that nurtures the child's awareness of their identity and opens creative doors through the Arabic language and authentic values. He also recommended developing contemporary, engaging Arabic media content that presents stories, heritage, and arts in an interactive way that strengthens children's connection to their identity and encourages pride in it. Qatari view: a flexible, rooted identity Parliamentarian Maryam Al-Namlan from Qatar stated that the first step in protecting cultural identity is to make it adaptable to global changes, without compromising its roots. She emphasised the need to enable Arab children to engage confidently with other cultures without losing themselves, so they can interact with the world while preserving their civilisational uniqueness. Lebanese concern: cultural erosion through globalisation Parliamentarian Joya Adel Al-Shabab from Lebanon warned of the danger Arab children face in losing their identity due to globalisation, conflict, and distancing from their mother tongue. She called for the inclusion of educational subjects that introduce children to Arab heritage, art, and history, as well as the production of media content broadcast via modern platforms in a style that resonates with children's emotions and strengthens their connection to their culture. She also proposed organising cultural exchange programmes among children in Arab countries to enhance interaction and belonging. Jordanian voice: language and culture as memory and pride Parliamentarian Rabia Ibrahim Abu Rumman from Jordan asserted that identity is not merely a dialect or traditional attire, but an extension of awareness and a deep root in collective memory. She pointed out that Arab children face alienation that makes them believe their origin is backward and that their language is a barrier. From this standpoint, she recommended restoring the status of the Arabic language as a gateway to emotional expression, integrating heritage into education through theatre and music, and establishing an Arab cultural observatory to monitor the quality of content aimed at children. Challenges facing Arab identity Parliamentarian Malek Al-Iskandarani from Lebanon emphasised that Arab identity is facing serious challenges, foremost among them being the weakness of child-focused media, the negative impact of social media, and the effects of conflict and migration. He recommended enriching school curricula with content that deepens a sense of belonging, supporting child-friendly media in strong and engaging Arabic, and organising joint Arab cultural camps to promote cultural interaction among Arab children. Digital openness and rooted traditions Parliamentarian Fajr Al-Dhari from Bahrain affirmed that cultural identity is in real danger today due to digital openness and the abundance of diverse content. She highlighted the importance of embedding values and traditions in children's daily lives. She reviewed Bahrain's efforts in developing curricula and heritage-based activities and recommended leveraging social media to spread authentic Arab concepts, linking technology with heritage through Arabic educational games, and launching Arab competitions in poetry, drawing, and writing. Promoting critical awareness Parliamentarian Mohamed Alaa Al-Makssour from Morocco stated that cultural identity represents a nation's history and roots and is a source of cohesion and contribution. In the face of globalisation, he stressed the need to promote conscious openness rooted in discernment, critical thinking, and analysis rather than passive consumption. He called for a stronger role for families, schools and media in protecting identity, producing attractive Arabic-language content, and fostering critical thinking in children to make them confident in their roots and capable of presenting their culture positively to the world. Shared responsibility and national celebration Parliamentarian Sheikh Humaid bin Khalid Al Qasimi from the United Arab Emirates noted that cultural identity is not a choice but a fundamental right of every Arab child. He stressed that safeguarding it is a collective responsibility that requires coordinated Arab action. He praised Sharjah's role in supporting childhood and culture and proposed the adoption of an Arab National Day for Cultural Identity, followed by a week in schools and community centres, and the launch of a dedicated award in cultural identity to encourage outstanding initiatives and foster belonging across generations. Modern tools for heritage preservation Parliamentarian Al-Afra bint Saif Al-Awfiya from the Sultanate of Oman described Arab cultural identity as a living entity that evolves and reflects the uniqueness of each community. However, it is threatened by globalisation and media-led alienation. She asserted that defending identity does not mean isolation, but rather confident openness. She recommended integrating identity into the curriculum through a dedicated subject and launching interactive apps to introduce children to their language, customs and traditions in an engaging and contemporary way. Gratitude and commitment to the future At the end of the interventions, the President of the Arab Parliament for the Child expressed his thanks to all members for their valuable contributions. He stressed that the discussions represented a genuine step toward a shared collective awareness of the importance of protecting Arab cultural identity among children. New business The third item of the session was dedicated to new developments, including the announcement of the appointment of Riam Mohamed from the Republic of Iraq to the Activities Committee, succeeding former member Roaa Moayyad. Members were also informed that the date and theme of the next session would be determined later by the Secretariat-General. Conclusion and future vision At the conclusion of the session, the Parliament President expressed deep appreciation to the Secretariat-General for organising the session and to all participants for their engagement and constructive proposals. He reaffirmed the Parliament's commitment to supporting childhood issues and reinforcing the authentic Arab presence of children in every field, stating: 'We are the children of this nation, and we will remain loyal to its history and carry the responsibility of its future.' With this declaration, the second session of the fourth cycle of the Arab Parliament for the Child concluded, reaffirming that cultural identity is the gateway to development and the foundation for building an Arab citizen capable of contributing and competing on a global stage.
