Chattogram: State Minister for Religious Affairs Mohammad Shamim Kaiser emphasized the expanded role of imams in a recent address at the Chattogram Imam Training Academy auditorium. Imams are expected to cultivate moral values within their communities, in addition to leading regular prayers at mosques.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the junior minister highlighted the necessity for imams to serve as leaders of the pious, urging them to model honesty, integrity, and virtuous behavior in their own lives. This approach, he noted, requires imams to be well-versed in wisdom and knowledge, thereby setting positive examples for society.
Kaiser elaborated on the various forms of leadership within society and stressed the importance of imams in providing religious and moral guidance. He noted that their conduct should inspire others, as they are entrusted with guiding their communities both spiritually and morally.
In his address, Kaiser also spoke about the blessings granted by Allah Almighty, such as sight, hearing, intellect, and conscience. He observed that many individuals often fail to express gratitude for these gifts adequately. Additionally, he pointed out that the academy's facilities are currently underutilized and mentioned plans to assess the feasibility of repurposing unused areas for public benefit and training initiatives.
The state minister suggested that the unused spaces could be converted into accommodations and training services for Hajj pilgrims from Chattogram and its surrounding regions. The event was chaired by Mostafa Mansur Alam Khan, director of the Islamic Foundation Chattogram Division, and attended by officials, Islamic scholars, and ulamas.