ASYRAF: MALAYSIA SEEN AS AN EXAMPLE IN MUSLIM WORLD
Development of moderate form of Islam made possible by BN, led by Umno
MALAYSIA has received much attention from other Islamic countries over its efforts in upholding Islam despite being a multireligious nation, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said yesterday.
He said the country was an example in the Muslim world.
“Although Article 3 of the (Malaysian) Federal Constitution clearly states that Islam is the religion of the federation, other religions can be practised in peace and harmony.
“This principle of coexistence, which the government has long upheld, has drawn the notice of leaders of many Islamic countries, including Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Abdulaziz Al-Saud, who chose Malaysia to kick off his regional tour last March,” Asyraf said at the National Undergraduates Leadership Conference (Pemanas 5.0) here yesterday.
King Salman’s visit saw Malaysia and Saudi Arabia agreeing to establish the King Salman Centre for International Peace (KSCIP), which aims to focus on combating extreme narratives among Muslims.
Asyraf said he had asked King Salman’s representative why Malaysia was chosen as the location for KSCIP.
“He said Malaysia is the face of true Islam. (It) promotes peace and the wasatiyyah (moderation) concept.”
Asyraf added that the development of a moderate form of Islam in Malaysia had been made possible by Barisan Nasional, led by Umno.
“For example, the government allocated RM1.03 billion for Islamic development in next year’s budget.”
The six-day Pemanas 5.0 conference, attended by 350 participants, will feature more than 20 talks by senior ministers on economics, education, religion and politics.
The aim of the conference is to ensure that graduates understand the government’s position on various issues. It will be closed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak at Universiti Teknologi Mara Shah Alam tomorrow.