Hisham: Arab leaders’ visits proof of Islamic unity
KUALA LUMPUR: The recent state visits by Arab leaders to Malaysia are proof of the government’s agenda to unite the Islamic world by promoting the true image of Islam, said a senior minister yesterday.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said this after describing Bahrain’s King Hamad Isa Al Khalifa’s four-day state visit to Malaysia as “very successful”.
“King Hamad’s visit last week was seen as a linking up of likeminded people to promote tolerance, moderation and harmony.
“That is very important in a divided world with a skewed perception of Islam at the moment,” said Hishammuddin.
Hishammuddin, who is also Umno vice-president, said this during an interview in conjunction with Umno’s 71st anniversary celebration at the Defence Ministry here yesterday.
He said Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani would also conduct state visits to Malaysia soon.
“The Prime Minister’s Office will announce another very important visit in the near future.”
He said the soon-to-be established King Salman Centre for International Peace (KSCIP) was made possible following the ruler’s visit to the country in March.
“So, what we have here in Malaysia is strength. It’s impossible that they (Arab leaders) would come to Malaysia if what our detractors are claiming is true.
“I haven’t even mentioned our (strong) relationship with the United States and China,” he said, adding that the global community appreciated Malaysia’s struggle to promote peace.
“And, part of that struggle comes from Umno’s 71 years of existence.”
Hishammuddin later received a courtesy call from United Arab Emirates ambassador to Malaysia Khalid Ghanim Mohammad AlGhaith at his office.