PUTRAJAYA: Islamic propagation through the Internet should be expanded in line with the use of traditional media, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said such a medium could reach out to people of various races and backgrounds.
"In Islam, we can use the new media to spread the ‘taqwa’ concept and make Islam a part of everyday life.
"Through the new media, Muslims can also meet their current needs in accordance with Islamic teachings," said Zahid in a statement after attending the Islamic Consultative Council meeting at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre.
In recent years, he said, new media has been identified as one of the reasons that triggers crises within society.
"The circulation of unauthorised information from various media channels has led irresponsible parties to spin current issues and spread negative perception.
"Some also tend to blow up small issues to tarnish the image of Islam and perform ‘character assassinations' against religious institutions, Islamic heads of departments, mufti and Islamic scholars." he said.
He said such attitudes should be eliminated whether through mass, electronic or social media.
He said Malaysia must be on constant alert to check the spread of dangerous ideologies like Syiah.
"The spread of Daesh influence and their radical ideology is a big threat to the national security.
"The government views the matter seriously and will continuously work with national security agencies to ensure that such militant groups will not set foot in this country.
"The Syiah belief is a big threat to the Muslim's aqidah. The clash between two largest groups -Sunni and Syiah, also contributed to the conflicts of Muslims, especially in the Middle East," he added.