Kuala Belait - A certificate presentation ceremony was held yesterday morning by the Courses Unit of the Dakwah Dissemination Department at the Islamic Dakwah Centre in the Belait District. It took place at the centre's hall in the district.

The guest of honour at the event was the Acting Director of the Islamic Dakwah Centre, Hj Abd Aziz bin Hj Akop, who also handed over certificates to the course participants.

In his welcoming speech, the Belait District Chief Religious Officer, Hj Idris bin Hj Aji said the Courses Unit in the district was established in February 2012 with the purpose of organising courses on the knowledge of Islamic religion to all levels of government officers and staff, as well as employees in the private sector and also the general public in the Belait District.

Hj Idris further urged the participants to take the opportunity and educational facilities provided to pursue further courses as well as to inculcate one's self with knowledge.

The subjects provided are knowledge of Tasawwuf, Fiqh AzZakat, Fiqh As-Shiam, Fiqh As-Shalah and Fiqh Munakahat. A total of 77 participants comprising members of associations in the district and government employees participated in the course last year This year's programme saw the participation of 102 people - 53 members of associations in the district and 49 government officers and staff.

Certificates were yesterday given to 49 government officers and staff comprising 24 males and 25 females from 35 government departments in the Belait District that participated in three four-day courses held separately: Fiqh Az-Zakat (May 21-24), As-Shiam ( July 9-12) and Munakahat (Sept 17-20).

A representative of the course participants, Awg Zulaidi bin Hj Zakaria, also made a speech to convey appreciation to the organiser, Courses Unit of Dakwah Dissemination Department, Belait Islamic Dakwah Centre and especially to the instructor, Ustazah Hjh Hanisah binti Abdullah for her guidance and devotion in teaching them.

"Hopefully our participation in such courses will increase our knowledge and comprehension as well as appreciation towards the teachings of Islam solely to enhance our faith and devotion to Allah SWT," said Awg Zulaidi.

Awg Zulaidi also suggested that such programme should be continued in the future especially to provide an opportunity for government employees and all levels of community in the district in general to gain a deeper understanding on Islamic knowledge.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin