Dar al-arqam

Definition of "Dar al-arqam"

A sufi movement of Malaysia, founded in 1968 by Ustaz Asha‘ari Muhammad with the primary objective of reviving Islamic faith among the Muslims. Later, the movement started a comprehensive pro- gramme of rural development. By 1992, it had established 40 villages of its own where its members lived and carried out various socioeconomic activities on mutual help basis. The movement had an economic pro- gramme by which its members and sympathizers operated various small scale industries, business enterprises and services. The movement had a rigorous programme of spiritual training. By 1992, it had branches in 15 other countries. It published several magazines and disseminated its message through audio–video cassettes. It had its own computer centre. Its programme included social activities as well as entertainment within the Islamic framework. Its members wear a distinct dress and follow the Islamic code of behaviour in letter and spirit. It was banned by the Malaysian government in 1998.