Brunei Darussalam was among five regional countries represented at the 20th Nusantara Syariah Scholars Muzakarah, where Islamic scholars and financial experts discussed emerging issues and strengthened collaboration in advancing Syariah compliance within the Islamic finance industry.

The event held in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah on July 21 and 22, 2026 was themed ‘Strengthening Syariah Compliance in the Islamic Financial System’.

The annual muzakarah brought together ulama, Syariah advisers, Islamic scholars and Islamic finance practitioners from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. The event served as a platform for participants to exchange views on contemporary issues affecting the Islamic finance sector and to explore practical approaches to enhancing Syariah governance and compliance across the region.

Among the key topics discussed were the concepts of hajah (need) and darurah (necessity) in the context of al-i’anah ‘ala al-ma’siyah (assisting in sinful acts), as well as the relevant Syariah parameters governing such matters.

Parallel presentation sessions also focused on the issue of ghalat (errors or mistakes) within the Islamic finance and takaful industries, highlighting the importance of maintaining robust Syariah standards and governance.

Prior to the muzakarah, participants also attended a masterclass conducted by leading Islamic finance experts, focusing on the concepts of rectification and purification in Islamic finance.

The session provided participants with deeper insights into best practices for ensuring Syariah compliance and strengthening governance within the industry.

The annual muzakarah serves as an important regional platform for knowledge sharing, scholarly engagement and professional collaboration, reinforcing the commitment of Nusantara countries to the sustainable development of Islamic finance in accordance with Syariah principles. – LYNA MOHAMAD