In an attempt to unite his empire and prevent anyone from defecting and helping out the Dzungars, Abu'l Khair Khan also fostered a strong religious identity among the Sunni Muslim Kazakhs.
To solidify his rule and deter potential defections, Abu'l Khair Khan promoted a strong sense of Islamic faith among the Sunni Muslim Kazakhs. This strategy was implemented to counter any support for the Dzungar forces.