PERKIM: A Comprehensive Insight
Definition and Meaning
PERKIM stands for “Pertubuhan Kabajikan Islam Se-Malaysia,” translated as the All Malaysia Muslim Welfare Association. Founded in 1960, it serves as a religious and social welfare organization with primary goals that revolve around the promotion of Islam as a national religion, notably focusing on the voluntary conversion of non-Malay populations. The organization’s expanded scope includes a myriad of social services such as hostel accommodations, religious instruction, counseling, educational services, clinics, and drug rehabilitation programs. Their educational endeavors extend to publishing instructional books on Islam, addressing social problems, and providing multilingual newsletters in Malay, Chinese, and English.
Etymology and Background
The name “PERKIM” is an acronym originating from the Malay phrase “Pertubuhan Kebajikan Islam Se-Malaysia.” The words break down as follows:
- Pertubuhan: Association
- Kebajikan: Welfare
- Islam: Islam
- Se-Malaysia: Across Malaysia
Founded during a time of significant socio-political shifts, PERKIM emerged in the wake of the growing ethnic and religious tensions in 1960s Malaysia. The organization was established as a non-governmental entity focusing on both religious advocacy and social welfare, aimed at nurturing a national identity aligned with Islamic values.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1960: PERKIM was officially founded by key Malaysian political and religious figures.
- 1969: Malaysia faced severe ethnic riots, known as the May 13 Incident, which intensified the need for social interventions aligning with PERKIM’s mission of promoting Islamic unity and welfare.
- 1970s-1980s: Expansion of PERKIM’s reach into numerous Malaysian states, alongside the diversification of its welfare and educational programs.
- Present: PERKIM continues to be influential in Islamic outreach and sociocultural harmony.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
PERKIM’s welfare approach reflects the traditional Islamic emphasis on community service (‘Khidmah’) and charitable endeavors (‘Sadaqah’). Similar initiatives can be observed in other Islamic majority countries and even non-Islamic welfare systems that emphasize community-based social services. Culturally, even though PERKIM’s primary objective pertains to the propagation and promotion of Islam, its efforts transcend ethnic boundaries, recognizing and respecting non-Malay cultural identities.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Islamic Welfare Organization
- Religious Charitable Association
- Dawah Network
Antonyms:
- Secular Association
- Non-Religious Welfare Organization
Related Terms and Definitions
- Dawah: The Islamic practice of proselytization or preaching.
- Sadaqah: Voluntary charitable giving in Islam.
- Khidmah: Service to the community.
- Zakat: Compulsory almsgiving, one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
Exciting Facts
- PERKIM organizes outreach programs in remote areas to offer educational and healthcare services.
- The organization’s efforts have significantly contributed to the peaceful coexistence of multiple ethnic communities in Malaysia.
- PERKIM publishes educational content in several locally prevalent languages.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The work of organizations like PERKIM exemplifies the compassionate and encompassing spirit of Islamic welfare traditions, acting as a bridge between faith and critical social services.” - Aisha Abdul Rahman, Islamic Scholar.
Suggested Literature
- “Islam in Malaysia: An Entwined History” by Amir K.V. Ramli
- “Faith and Welfare: Contemporary Islamic Social Services” edited by Samira Ibrahim
- “Unity in Diversity: The Role of Religious Organizations in Multi-Ethnic Societies” by Rashid Fadhlur Rahman
Quizzes
Stay inspired to build bridges of community and faith through understanding!
~ Farewell, and may this knowledge foster unity and compassion.
Saleha Ibrahim, 2023
