Challenges of Muallaf in Building Muslim’s Identity in Malaysia

Abstract

Identity is related to a nation’s culture, belief system, and language. Malaysia is a multi-ethnic country inhabited by various races and religions. Every year there is a conversion to Islam among non-Muslims on the influence of various factors. It becomes a challenge to certain ethnicities to maintain their identity and build a genuine Muslim personality. This study aims to identify the challenges faced by groups who embrace Islam (muallaf) in building their identity as Muslims. This descriptive study uses an interview method on five important people who are directly involved in the management of muallaf in Malaysia. This study was conducted in five selected zones, namely Kedah (Northern Peninsula Zone), Terengganu (Peninsular East Coast Zone), Selangor (Peninsular West Coast Zone), and Sabah (West Malaysia Zone). The results of the study found that the factors of lack of understanding and appreciation of religious teachings, embracing Islam because of marriage, less moral support from Born-Muslim partner, continuing living in the non-Muslim community, the huge gap with the Muslim community, and difficulty to eliminate old habits are challenges faced by muallaf in building Muslim themselves-identity. This study is important because it provides early information to the relevant institution in Malaysia to take prevention worse, such as apostasy among muallaf.