Marjanie Mimbantas Macasalong, PhD
Chairperson, Bangsamoro Youth Commission
Muslim Religious Peace Conference
June 20, 2023

 

Distinguished guests, esteemed scholars, and honorable participants,

Assalamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu.

It is an honor and a privilege to stand before you today at this blessed gathering, the Muslim Religious Peace Conference, that brings together Islamic scholars and youth leaders from across the Bangsamoro region.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to SUBATRA, Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society, Hay-ato Ulama El Muslimina Bil Filibbin, Inc., Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta, Al-Jalis As-Salih, Inc., and the Union of Muslim Youth Organization, Inc. for continuously working with the Bangsamoro Youth Commission on initiatives that promote the holistic development of our youth.

This conference holds great significance as it serves as a venue to mainstream the true message of Islam, following the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).

The BYC, with its deep commitment to youth’s holistic development, recognizes the importance of programs like this conference that strengthen our religiosity and remind us of our individual and collective roles as Muslim believers.

One of the primary objectives of this conference is to strengthen the participation of Islamic scholars in promoting peacebuilding and security efforts within our region. As inheritors of a rich intellectual tradition, our scholars hold a profound responsibility to guide and inspire our communities toward the path of peace. By convening here today, we demonstrate our unwavering commitment to this noble cause.

As we gather here today, I am reminded of the profound impact that young minds can have on shaping the world around us. The youth are the torchbearers of change, the carriers of hope, and the architects of a brighter tomorrow. The BYC with the help of its partners is committed to empowering and involving our young generation in peacebuilding and nation-building initiatives.

In the spirit of this program, let us be reminded of the hadeeth of the Prophet (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam):

“Kullu kum raa’in wa kullukum mas’oolun an ra’yatihi” (Every one of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock.)

let us recognize and embody our collective duty to foster peace and harmony within our communities.

I extend my deepest appreciation to each and every one of you for your presence here today. May the outcomes of this conference be beneficial to us in this world and Hereafter.

Jazakum Allahu khairan. Wa billahi tawfeeq wal-hidaayag. Wassalamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu.