‘Moderation has helped us attract FDI, boost economy’

PEKAN: Malaysia’s reputation as a moderate Islamic nation has helped it gain admiration from around the globe, including from Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Abdulaziz Al-Saud.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said this had translated into more foreign direct investments, which not only spurred the country’s economy, but also benefited the people and gave a boost to Islam.

He said the practices adopted by Muslims in Malaysia had been described as the “best and authentic” brand of Islam, which were based on the concept of wasatiyyah, or moderation.

“All these are highly appreciated by King Salman.

“This international admiration for Malaysia has helped the country and its people reap benefits through investments.”

Najib said this during the closing ceremony of the “Ijtima’ Organisation Leadership in Islamic Concept” programme here yesterday.

Among the benefits, he said, included the increase in Malaysia’s haj quota this year, and Saudi Arabian Oil Co’s RM31 billion investment in the refinery and petrochemical integrated development project in Johor.

“Malaysia has been chosen to house the King Salman Centre for Global Peace.

“He (King Salman) could have chosen any other Muslim country, but why did he pick Malaysia?

“This is what we should ask ourselves and the answer is because of what we practise here.

“What we do in the name of Islam and our policies are regarded as the best Islamic models,” said Najib, who is also Pekan member of parliament.

He said Saudi Arabia’s decision to invite him as one of the five speakers to address the recent United States-Arab Islamic Summit in Riyadh was proof of the close relationship between both countries.