Definition and Overview
Regional Islamic Dawah Council of Southeast Asia and the Pacific (RISEAP) is a nongovernmental, nonprofit organization established in 1980. Its creation stemmed from the necessity to unify Muslims in the region and synchronize their Islamic missionary efforts. Located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, RISEAP’s mission is supported primarily by financial contributions from Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. The Council bolsters fraternity among Muslim organizations and aims to align their policies and actions for the support of Muslims in the region.
Etymology and Background
Dawah (دعوة) derives from the Arabic root “دعوت” (dawa), meaning “invitation” or “calling.” It signifies the process of inviting others to understand and embrace Islam. This concept lies at the heart of RISEAP’s extensive efforts in the diverse cultures of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Historical Development:
- Established in 1980, RISEAP sought to address the socio-religious needs expressed by diverse Muslim groups in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
- In 1986, RISEAP initiated a women’s movement to integrate Muslim women fully into social development activities.
Responsibilities and Achievements
- Supervision of Missionary Activities: Executes and supervises duties to propagate Islamic teachings.
- Training Individuals for Islamic Social Work: Prepares and empowers Muslims to undertake social welfare roles.
- Teaching Experts: Supplies skilled individuals to teach Islam and guide communities.
- Establishment of Mosques and Islamic Centers: Develops religious infrastructure to support Islamic life.
- Islamic Literature Publication: Distributes comprehensive literature to educate Muslims and others about Islam.
Women’s Movement
In 1986, RISEAP established a focused initiative to harness the potential of Muslim women in furthering Islamic and social values within the community.
Cultural Context and Contributions
Cultural Differences and Collaborative Spirit:
- Indonesia and Malaysia: Predominantly Muslim nations that actively participate in RISEAP’s mission.
- Thailand and the Philippines: Feature significant Muslim minorities whom RISEAP supports in preserving their religious and cultural practices.
- Pacific Islands: Addresses cultural diversity by adopting a empathetic and adaptive approach to various local traditions.
Lexical relatives:
- Dawah: Propagation of Islam.
- Ummah (أمة): The collective community of Muslims worldwide.
- Tawheed: Islamic monotheism.
Exciting Facts
- RISEAP plays a crucial role in hosting missionary leaders, linking regions ranging from Indonesia to Micronesia.
- Instrumental in extending Islamic education to rural and deprived parts of the region.
Quotations:
“The strength of Islamic unity is measured not by proximity, but by the spirit of Dawah that bridges hearts across cultures and oceans.” - Dr. Muhammad Irfan
Recommended Literature:
- “Dawah Activities and Outreach in Southeast Asia” by Prof. Noor Al-Ma’ariful (2015).
- “Islamic Teaching Methods and Movements: Insights and Perspectives” by Dr. Azra Khan (2010).
Inspirational Farewell: “In serving the Ummah with earnest hearts, connected beyond mere geographical lines, we kindle the beacon of Islam’s timeless wisdom for all generations to come.”
