The emergence of Shiism and its influence in Malacca :an analytical study

Abstract

The movement of Shiism can be traced despite being illegal through a fatwa endorsed by Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM). In Malacca, its presence is detected since it draws the attention of the local Malays. This study analyses the emergence of Shiism and its influence on the Malay community in Malacca. This study utilises in-depth interviews involving several local Shῑah, officers from religious institutions and the local Malay community. It also uses textual analysis methods. This research specifically examines the historical background of the Shῑah group in Malacca and its development. This study also explicates the doctrines of Shiism which are used by the local Malay Shῑah which reflect the understanding of the local Malay Shῑah and their reason for existing. This study explores the impacts of the Shῑah group on the Malay Muslim community in Malacca and discovers their reaction of the threat of Shiism, the unity of the ummah, and peaceful life. The study finds that the Shῑah existence in Malacca has been much inspired with the Iranian Revolution led by the supreme spiritual leader Khomeini. They lack knowledge and give incorrect explanations on Shῑah practices. The local Malay Shῑah are more focused on the imamah rather than aqidah which shows that they are more concerned with the branch issue over the main issue. It makes them more fanatical and extreme. It also finds that the beliefs and practices of the local Malay Shῑah create confusion and an uncomfortable situation within the local Muslim community. The tense atmosphere exists in Felda Kemendor, Jasin. It was sparked by the issue of building a tomb in a graveyard. This study concludes with the need for the Muslim community in Malacca to be exposed to knowledge and information about Shiism so that they can avoid from been tricked and manipulated by the Shῑah arguments. Proper knowledge and comprehensive views of Islamic teaching are needed so they can guide the local Malay Shῑah and the local Malay community to the real truth which is the teaching of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jamaah.