Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim delivering a keynote address at KazanForum 2025. Image credit to SADIQ ASYRAF/Prime Minister’s Office.
By TNS NEWS TEAM
KAZAN (Tatarstan), RUSSIA – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on the Islamic world to rise as a collective force for hope, justice, and global solutions during his keynote address at the KazanForum 2025 and the Strategic Vision Group Meeting: Russia–Islamic World, held in the Republic of Tatarstan.
Invited as a special guest, Anwar was accorded the honour of addressing both high-level platforms that promote strategic dialogue and cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Islamic world. His remarks struck a chord with delegates as he outlined a comprehensive vision for unity, economic empowerment, and ethical governance among Muslim nations.
“The Islamic world must rise as a collective force of hope and solutions in an increasingly fractured world,” Anwar said, emphasizing that Islamic countries must lead with purpose, grounded in values and solidarity.
Islamic-Russian Engagement and ASEAN Inspiration
Anwar expressed his appreciation for the leadership of Rais Rustam Minnikhanov, the Head of the Republic of Tatarstan, and welcomed Russia’s sustained engagement with the Islamic world through platforms like KazanForum.
He noted that Malaysia, with its dual identity as a leading Islamic nation and a key ASEAN member, is prepared to contribute meaningfully to such dialogue — particularly through practical initiatives in energy transition, economic integration, and digital transformation.
“I cited the ASEAN Power Grid as a model of cross-border cooperation that the wider Islamic world can draw inspiration from,” he stated, underscoring ASEAN’s growing relevance as a regional example for connectivity and sustainable growth.
Advancing the Halal Economy and Islamic Finance
Anwar emphasized the immense potential of the halal industry and Islamic finance, now estimated to exceed USD 3 trillion globally, as strategic areas for mutual benefit between Muslim and non-Muslim economies. He highlighted Malaysia’s continued role as a global leader in halal certification, Islamic banking, and Shariah-compliant financial instruments.
“We must unlock this potential not just for profit, but for the greater good — through inclusive, ethical, and sustainable development,” he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at KazanForum 2025. Image credit to SADIQ ASYRAF/Prime Minister’s Office.
A Moral Compass for the World
Addressing global injustices, Anwar drew attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling it a blatant example of double standards and selective outrage in the international community.
“In a world scarred by hypocrisy and selective outrage, we must return to justice, compassion, and human dignity,” he said, reaffirming Malaysia’s unwavering stance on Palestine and the need for moral clarity in geopolitics.
Tribute to Tatar Heritage and Youth Empowerment
Deeply moved by the hospitality and spirit of the Tatar people, Anwar referenced Leo Tolstoy’s Haji Murat to reflect their historical resilience. He also quoted Tatar poet Gabdulla Tukai, offering an inspirational message to the region’s youth:
“To whom only life in malicious conflict was not? In your struggle to it do not concede at all.”
This, he said, encapsulates the determination needed by young Muslims to build a better world rooted in values and courage.
Malaysia’s Role on the World Stage
In a concluding reflection, Anwar described his visit as “highly meaningful”, having deepened Malaysia’s friendship with Russian leadership and opened new channels for economic and strategic cooperation.
“Alhamdulillah, this visit left a lasting impression. It strengthened bilateral ties, expanded cooperation opportunities, and further elevated Malaysia’s role on the international stage,” he wrote.
Anwar’s presence at KazanForum 2025 not only reinforced Malaysia’s diplomatic engagement but also reasserted its position as a moderate Muslim nation advocating for justice, development, and global unity.
As Malaysia chairs ASEAN in 2025, this latest engagement adds to Anwar’s broader diplomatic momentum — one that positions the country as a convening force between East and West, North and South, and among the world’s diverse Muslim communities.
About KazanForum 2025
The XVI International Economic Forum “Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum” is the premier platform for economic cooperation between the Russian Federation and countries of the Islamic world. Held annually in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, the forum aims to strengthen trade, economic, scientific, technical, social, and cultural ties between Russia and member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Since its inception in 2009, KazanForum has grown significantly, with the 2025 edition attracting over 20,000 participants from more than 100 countries.
The forum’s agenda encompasses various sectors, including Islamic finance, halal industry, digital economy, and youth entrepreneurship, fostering dialogue and collaboration on pressing global issues.
- TNS NEWS
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