An interesting variation of reality TV tried-and-true formula, “Imam Muda” or “Young Leader”, hopes to make Islam more relevant to the lives of young people and extending the role of religious leaders beyond the mosque. Judging from the overall positive feedback and the alternative female version spin-offs, it seems like the show has managed to achieve visible results in terms of its popularity. However, as I read (and re-read) the article, it brings to my mind certain points that I believe are worth discussing about.
While taking the measure of the show’s popularity and success to be the high viewership it receives as well as the number of fans following it on Facebook (over a cool 400 000 to date), the question remains how these numbers are a true reflection of the results it hopes to achieve – raising awareness about Islam and making the religion more relevant today. This is because even though the numbers have exploded since the show’s humble beginnings in 2010 and the show remains Astro Oasis highest rated program ever, it can still be a little premature to take it as evidence of how involved and engaged the masses are with the religion itself. After all, just like all other reality TV shows, “Imam Muda” attracts audiences with thrill of a life-changing experience as well as the promise of fame and stardom for the winner. But when the show is over and people walk away from the television screen, are they really going to be better able to relate to their religious leaders in the future?
Perhaps a better way to illustrate this point of mine would be to draw reference to the unfortunate cancellation of one of my favorite American comedic sitcoms of all time (something I am still very sorry about until this day), Outsourced. Despite ranking #1 among ABC, CBS and other networks as well as receiving nominations for acclaimed awards such as the People’s Choice, it was canned after its one and only season. Even though the show may have been a quite a charming production, according to Alessandra Stanley, the TV critic of The New York Times, having a great viewership ratings, reviews and even award nominations are not strong enough criteria to deem whether a program is really able to deliver the results among its audiences that it is looking for.
On a more personal level, I believe religion and its beliefs are something that it is deeply personal. I myself am a Christian and for me, I see my relationship with God as a personal journey of faith. While I do enjoy the uplifting praise and worship sessions, fellowship with my cell group and Sunday services, how I interpret my religion is still a matter of my personal choice. I find it doubtful that a television show, other than commercial breaks, with its limited airtime and not to mention continuity in terms of the contestant changing season after season, is able to bring the level of intimacy and closeness that a relationship is to its audience. I appreciate the fact that the producers seek to bring the delivery of sermons (something people usually see as boring) more interesting such that it will appeal to the younger generation, I believe that the quality of the message which the leaders hope to express ends up getting compromised instead because of all the constraints.
Last but not least, perhaps the one thing that troubles me the most about this show is the prize itself – the job offer of an imam, a leader. A leader has to be tried and tested through the trials of time and other tribulations. A time frame of mere ten weeks and the so-called practical tasks and intellectual tests are simply not enough to gauge if someone is suitable to lead. The experiences, such as preparing the unclaimed corpses for burial, and the adulation and adoration of the masses following the program which come with winning may all seem memorable and wonderful at first. But a true leader, regardless of it being in the community or in religion, has to keep the passion for his/her cause going in spite of the setbacks, obstacles and frustrations there may be along the long road ahead.
