Director of International Corporation and Scholarship and the Islamic Agency for Quality Assurance Accreditation at the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM), Dr. Dawood Al Hidabi stated, the global Muslim community is not doing enough to clear the misconceptions that associate Islam with terrorism.
Speaking on Maldives Today, TV programme aired on PSM News, Dr. Dawood Al Hidabi said, ignorance has been the root cause of such stereotypes which has resulted in irreversible damage to the Muslim community. Briefing on the reasons behind the stereotypes that associate Islam with terrorism and extremism, Dr Hidabi said, ignorance has been the root cause. He noted that the best approach in tackling this issue, is by cultivating the true principles of Islam in the minds of children.
Dr. Hidabi highlighted that the perception of Muslim communities as ignorant, under developed people who are unable to keep up with the fast- changing world, is also a factor that contributes to the misconception. On this note, Dr. Hidabi called on all Muslim nations to bring development to the forefront in all sectors.
Speaking on efforts to combat the threat of terrorism, Dr Dawood Al Hidabi stated that the extreme reaction of applying force in does not have much of an impact in the global fora. In this regard Dr. Hidabi noted, a much less violent and professional approach is required to change the perspective of others and called on all Muslim countries to opt for negotiations in order to lead a stable and peaceful life.
Dr Dawood Al Hidabi visited Maldives to participate in the high level seminar held on the "Role of Moderation in Countering Terrorism and Promotion of Peace and Security". The seminar which was organised as a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Maldives National Defence Force, National Counter Terrorism Centre and Maldives Police Service was held from April 14-15 at Kurumba Maldives.