Electronic Publication of Fatwas Issued by the Fatwa Council in the State of Terengganu : An Evaluative Analytical Study

Abstract

The aim of this research is to examine how the wording of fatwas issued by the Terengganu State Fatwa Council and published electronically is understood by the local community. Additionally, the research seeks to analyze the prevalence of fatwas in Terengganu and their impact on the community. The main research question focuses on ensuring the accuracy and reliability of fatwas published by the State Fatwa Council, as well as how these fatwas are communicated to the community, particularly regarding the language and wording used to help Muslims apply important rulings. The research also investigates how e-fatwas influence the community's understanding of Islamic values and principles. To address these questions, the study employs a descriptive approach to clarify the elements, conditions, and etiquette surrounding fatwas, especially among fundamentalists, and an analytical approach to assess the significance and challenges of e-fatwas in the modern era. The research includes a field survey, which involved personal interviews with 30 Terengganu residents to collect data related to the research topic. The findings show that the electronic publication of fatwas is considered one of the most important methods of delivering religious guidance to the community, allowing for quick and reliable access to fatwas. While the community engages positively with online fatwas, some fatwas are not fully understood due to complex wording. Furthermore, the study revealed that the State Fatwa Council faces technical challenges related to information security and the accuracy of published texts, especially in the current technological age. The researcher recommends organizing training courses for preachers, including members of the Fatwa Committee, to improve their ability to handle, publish, and widely distribute fatwas electronically, thereby enhancing the technical skills of those responsible for fatwas and improving their effectiveness.