Knowledge is a blessing from Allah the Almighty that carries a responsibility to practise, share and use it wisely, particularly as digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) make information increasingly accessible.
This was highlighted by Kolej Universiti Perguruan Ugama Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Centre for Contemporary Fiqh Studies Deputy Director and Assistant Lecturer Dr Awang Hilman bin Haji Salim during the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ 252nd Malam Munajat on Saturday evening.
The programme, held in conjunction with KUPU SB’s convocation, was broadcast from the institution’s Main Prayer Hall.
Delivering a tazkirah titled ‘Ilmu dan Amanah’ (Knowledge and Trust), Dr Awang Hilman said knowledge should not be pursued merely as a source of personal pride, but should be applied and shared with sincerity, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility.
He stressed that while technological advancements have made information easier and faster to obtain, individuals must continue to practise tabayyun, or careful verification, and seek guidance from knowledgeable experts.
Information received through digital platforms should not be automatically accepted or circulated without first establishing its accuracy, he added.
Despite changes in how knowledge is acquired, individuals remain responsible for upholding truth, proper conduct and ensuring that information is used for beneficial purposes.
Dr Awang Hilman concluded that knowledge is a blessing that brings trust, and that trust must be accompanied by responsibility.
The programme brought together KUPU SB academic staff and graduates at the Main Prayer Hall, alongside congregants from mosques nationwide, Ministry of Religious Affairs personnel and members of the public who participated virtually.
It began with the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar and Surah Al-Fatihah, led by KUPU SB Ra’es Dr Awang Haji Arman bin Haji Asmad.
The mass recitation of Surah Al-Waqiah was subsequently led by KUPU SB Higher Diploma in Religious Teaching (Islamic Education) graduate Awang Muhammad Syukri Mubasyir bin Haji Mohamad Sufri.
Another graduate of the same programme, Awang Mohamed Khairie bin Mohamed Shalahudeen, led the Doa Munajat.
A special prayer seeking rainfall amid the haze was recited by KUPU SB Student Representative Council Chief Executive for Religious and Spiritual Affairs for 2026–2027 Awang Muhammad Nabil Mukhlish bin Amerul Shah.
Following the religious talk, Student Representative Council President for 2026–2027 Awang Muhammad Nur Razin bin Rosli led the mass recitation of Selawat Tafrijiyyah.
The programme concluded with the Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam, recited by KUPU SB Bachelor of Religious Teaching (Islamic Education) graduate, with a minor in Guidance and Counselling, Awang Muhammad Syafiq bin Haji Abu Bakar.
Malam Munajat aims to encourage Muslims to strengthen their faith through prayers, seeking forgiveness and reflecting on verses from the Al-Quran, while collectively seeking Allah the Almighty’s protection for Brunei Darussalam and its people from calamities and infectious diseases. – Lyna Mohamad
-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin