Beyond Conversion: Factors Behind the Growing Number of Mualaf in Sabah and the Challenges of Religious Integration

The Muslim population in Malaysia has continued to increase over time. One of the contributing factors to this growth, particularly in the state of Sabah, is the rising number of mualaf. This observation is further supported by official mualaf statistics released by the Sabah State Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAINS), which indicate a consistent year on year increase in the number of formally registered mualaf. Sabah has also been recorded as the state with the highest increase in the number of mualaf compared to other states in Malaysia. Accordingly, this study aims to examine the factors that contribute to the increase in the number of mualaf in Sabah, as well as the challenges encountered after embracing Islam. This study adopts a qualitative approach through a literature based research design. By employing a literature review approach, the study engages with scholarly texts, da‘wah related articles, and other relevant sources to synthesise current understandings related to the topic. The study summarises that the primary factors contributing to the increase of mualaf in Sabah include active da‘wah efforts, admiration for Islamic moral conduct, interfaith marriage, and collaboration between governmental and non-governmental agencies. Meanwhile, the major challenges faced by mualaf across most areas in Sabah relate to financial constraints and issues of accessibility.