SISTERS in Islam (SIS) Forum Malaysia has announced a name change following advice issued by Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, saying it has decided to drop the word “Islam” from its name.
The decision was made following an Extraordinary General Meeting on July 11, with its executive director Rozana Isa saying the organisation will now sign off as SIS Forum (Malaysia), its registered name.
It explained that prior to this, “Sisters in Islam” was used as the SIS pen name to reflect its role as an organisation that advocates for justice and equality for Muslim women in Malaysia and its belief that Islam is a “just and compassionate religion”.
“Even as we drop the word ‘Islam’ from our pen name, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for gender equality and justice in Islamic family law,” Rozana stated.
“At the end of the day, it is the work we do for Muslim women and for Malaysian citizens that matters most.”
Rozana went on to deny the organisation’s intention to challenge Islam, saying it simply aims to ask the laws meant to protect women to not fail them.
“Issues such as unpaid nafkah (maintenance), divorce and polygamy done outside of court processes, rising cases of domestic violence, and the lack of gender-sensitive interpretation of Islamic legal provisions continue to affect Muslim women across the country. These concerns are real and systemic. They demand attention, not dismissal,” she continued.
“We hope this puts an end to the long-standing contention over our name and allows us to go forward in good faith with all parties.
“Women are equal in the eyes of God. Surely, they must also be seen and treated as equal in the eyes of men.” ‒ July 31, 2025
Main image: Bernama
