TRDI

KUALA TERENGGANU, 4 April - Renowned orator Prof. Dr. Zakir Naik has challenged the global Muslim community to take up the mantle of intellectual defense, identifying the removal of misconceptions as a primary duty in the modern age. 

Dr. Zakir emphasized that 'virulent propaganda' in international media has created a wall of misunderstanding that Muslims need to deconstruct.

Using a vivid analogy to describe the challenge of outreach, Dr. Zakir explained that many non-Muslims approach Islam with minds already filled with negative biases.

"When the cup is filled and you pour it will overflow. So first you remove these negative points. Once you answer them with reason, logic, and science then your dakwah will be more effective," he told the assembly.

Dr. Zakir identified a list of 20 common questions that he has encountered across the globe, from the United States and Europe to India and Malaysia. He noted that while the top of the chart questions shifted after the September 11 (in 2001) attacks.

Moving from topics like polygamy to jihad, fundamentalism, and terrorism, the core misconceptions remain remarkably consistent.

Dr. Zakir Naik emphasized that Muslims must master the responses to common misconceptions involving the nature of Jihad and the label of Islam as a 'religion of the sword,' women's rights such as polygamy, the hijab, and inheritance laws.

The list also include other misconceptions such as dietary prohibitions against alcohol and pork, the restriction on non-Muslims entering Makkah, and the logic behind why Muslims pray toward the Kaaba.

Dr. Zakir argued that Muslims do not need to memorize thousands of obscure answers but should instead focus on these 20 primary points. He noted that by using a combination of the Quran, Sahih Hadith, other religious scriptures (like the Bible and Vedas), and scientific facts, Muslims can help to deconstruct the misconceptions.

"If you can master the answers to these 20 common questions, even if you cannot make them accept Islam, at least you can neutralize them

"You can remove the animosity which is in the minds of the non-muslim," Dr. Zakir stated  as he spoke at the 5th International Assembly of United Muslim Ummah and Malay World Gathering 2026, yesterday.

He concluded by reminding the audience that regardless of their background, the Muslims need to present a true picture of the faith based on authentic sources.

"It is the duty of every Muslim to remove this misconception," he said.