Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Bahrain’s Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Picture Credit: Anwar Ibrahim Official FB
By Tengku Noor Shamsiah Tengku Abdullah
Panama, (Bahrain) Feb 20 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to fostering economic cooperation, Islamic unity, and diplomatic engagement during his visit to Manama, Bahrain.
His engagements included a dialogue with the Malaysian diaspora, a high-profile meeting with Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and a significant speech at the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference (IIDC).
Engaging the Malaysian Diaspora
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim meets Malaysians in Bahrain. Picture Credit: Anwar Ibrahim Official FB
Anwar took the opportunity to meet Malaysians residing in Manama, addressing their concerns and highlighting the government’s efforts to improve their welfare. Discussions covered direct flight connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and Manama, employment opportunities, investment prospects, and Malaysia’s leadership in Islamic finance.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to advancing the economic well-being of Malaysians globally while urging them to uphold the nation’s image and continuously equip themselves with knowledge and skills to remain competitive.
Promoting Islamic Solidarity and Addressing Sectarianism
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim delivering his speech at IIDC. Picture Credit: Anwar Ibrahim Official FB
A key highlight of Anwar’s visit was his role as the sole head of state invited to deliver a speech at IIDC.
He utilized this platform to call for unity among Muslim scholars and leaders in combating sectarianism, which he described as a divisive tool that weakens political cooperation and hampers collective progress.
His message was in alignment with that of Grand Imam of Al Azhar, Prof Dr Ahmed El-Tayyeb, who also urged for greater Islamic solidarity and the rejection of religious fanaticism.
Anwar stressed that the Islamic world must move beyond rhetoric in supporting Palestine, advocating for concrete diplomatic actions, economic backing, and infrastructural development to alleviate Palestinian suffering.
He also highlighted Syria as a potential model for reconciliation and urged the Muslim world to play a proactive role in its post-conflict rebuilding efforts.
Bilateral Relations with Bahrain
During his meeting with Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Anwar discussed the progress of Malaysia-Bahrain bilateral ties and explored new areas of cooperation.
He extended an invitation to Prince Salman to visit Malaysia for the upcoming ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and the ASEAN-GCC+China Summit, signaling Malaysia’s active role in strengthening regional partnerships.
A Vision for a United Ummah
Anwar concluded his visit with a message of hope, urging the global Muslim community to work collectively towards economic progress, unity, and peace. He reiterated that through steadfast commitment, integrity, and action, history would remember the efforts of those dedicated to creating a just and prosperous future for the Islamic world.
His engagements in Bahrain reflect Malaysia’s growing influence in global Islamic affairs and its proactive approach in fostering diplomatic, economic, and socio-religious ties on the international stage.
- TNS News