Malaysia ‘Imam Idol’ seeks to put friendly face on Islam FEATURE 08/03/2010

Malaysia ‘Imam Idol’ seeks to put friendly face on Islam

FEATURE 08/03/2010 KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s top “Young Imam” has vowed to soften the stern image of clerics and energize young Muslims after winning a hugely popular TV talent show search for a top young Islamic leader. The show, which attracted worldwide attention, saw 10 finalists tackle tasks such as reciting verses from the Koran, washing corpses and slaughtering sheep according to Islamic rules. Following the reality TV formula of shows such as American Idol and The X Factor, one contestant was eliminated each week until the series drew to a close on Friday night. Religious scholar Muhammad Asyraf Mohammad Ridzuan, who saw off nine rivals to win the “Young Imam” title, said he wanted to reach out to youngsters to spark their interest in the religion. “I want to be an imam who is friendly to the youth, cool, relaxed, able to play with children and engage the elderly,” the 26-year-old said after the finale, as he hailed the show as a “victory of Islam.”.... MORE Source:  The Daily Tribune URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/commentary/20100803com3.html

COMMENTARY EDITORIAL Seeking help, refusing to listen FRONTLINE Noynoy’s lose-lose situation FEATURE Malaysia ‘Imam Idol’ seeks to put friendly face on Islam MR. EXPOSE Leave Kris alone AN OUTSIDERS VIEW Low expectations focus Debate on death and taxes heats up as billionaires fall focus Soaring e-book sales speak volumes