MANAMA (Bahrain): Being given the opportunity to speak in front of more than 400 Islamic scholars and intellectuals at the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference (IIDC) is a great honour for Malaysia, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
As the only head of government to speak at the conference, the Prime Minister said that it served as proof and recognition of the efforts made by the Malaysian government to elevate Islam.
“His Majesty the King of Bahrain (Sheikh Hamad Isa Al Khalifa) and Sheikh Al-Azhar Al-Sharif (Professor Dr Ahmad Muhammad Ahmad At-Tayyeb) gave me the opportunity to attend and deliver the keynote address at the IIDC.
“This conference brought together prominent Islamic figures from all over the world and from all sects, with the goal of fostering unity and avoiding conflicts and tensions. We accept the reality that there are differences of opinion, whether in theology or practice,” he said.
He said this to the Malaysian media after concluding his official visit to Bahrain, upon the invitation of Crown Prince Sheikh Salman Hamad Al Khalifa.
Yesterday, during his speech at the IIDC, Anwar stressed the need for all Islamic scholars and intellectuals to unite and address the sectarian divide, taking firm steps to support Palestine and Syria.
He also said that exploiting sectarian differences and divisions only weakened political unity and hindered the much-needed cooperation among Muslim nations.
Anwar expressed his support for the spirit of unity and the importance of avoiding hostility.
“Let us not boast and claim that we are the only ones who are right, while labelling others as infidels or hypocrites. This call for unity is the message of all scholars worldwide.
“This is a reminder for all Muslims, especially us in Malaysia. We must set a good example by fostering unity, respecting differences of opinion, but not allowing them to lead to animosity,” he said.
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