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KUALA LUMPUR / WAM
His Eminence Dr Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, and Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, on Thursday
inaugurated a special session for Malaysian scholars and young researchers to discuss the moderation and tolerance of Islam, and the Islamic approach to promoting fraternity and harmony in societies.
In his opening remarks, the Grand Imam highlighted that one of the most distinguishing features of Malaysian society is its ethnic and religious diversity. He stressed that
the responsibility for establishing
and promoting peaceful coexistence among followers of different religions lies with every individual in society.
He emphasised that, in this critical time, efforts should focus on the unity and cohesion of the Ummah to achieve its desired renaissance.
The Grand Imam was also keen to listen to the opinions of Malaysian youth, discuss their ideas, and answer their questions regarding the relationship between Islamic schools of thought and how to utilise diversity for the benefit of the Ummah.
He also discussed women’s rights in Islam with some young women, explaining how Islam guarantees women’s rights to education and positive participation in social life, among other topics of interest to the participating Malaysian youth.
The Prime Minister of Malaysia expressed his pleasure at the Grand Imam’s participation in this important meeting and appreciated His Eminence’s dedication to engaging with Malaysian youth openly. He affirmed that Malaysia is grateful to the Grand Imam and the moderate teachings of Al-Azhar, which continue to disseminate both religious and worldly knowledge globally. He also noted that Malaysia is committed to strengthening its relationship with Al-Azhar and benefiting from the imam training programmes hosted by the Al-Azhar International Academy for Training Imams and Preachers.
He also expressed his hopes that the Grand Imam’s visit to Malaysia would mark the beginning of numerous joint projects and initiatives with Al-Azhar.