KUALA LUMPUR June 12, 2026 — Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim called on religious leaders worldwide to act as voices of conscience, moderation, and wisdom amid rising global conflicts, during his address at the 3rd International Summit of Religious Leaders today.
The summit, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), brought together religious leaders, scholars, academics, policymakers, and youth representatives from 31 countries. It was officiated by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
In his speech, Anwar stressed that peace cannot rely solely on political calculations. “Humanitarian values, justice, and compassion must continue to guide responses to various crises afflicting the world, including the ongoing humanitarian tragedy in Gaza and other regions,” he said.
He highlighted Malaysia’s model as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation, where strength lies in managing differences with fairness, wisdom, and respect rather than uniformity. “Malaysia remains committed to the principles of mutual respect, harmonious living in diversity, and upholding religious freedom as guaranteed by the Constitution,” Anwar added.
The Prime Minister warned against using religion to fuel hatred or enmity, urging it instead to serve as a source of peace, unity, and the defense of human dignity regardless of race, religion, or background. He expressed hope that dialogues like the summit would strengthen interfaith understanding and build a more peaceful, just, and humane world.
The event, themed around the role of religious leaders and youth in advancing coexistence and social harmony, featured keynote addresses including one by Muslim World League Secretary-General Sheikh Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa.
Anwar’s remarks align with Malaysia’s long-standing approach to religious pluralism, where Islam is the official religion but other faiths are practiced freely, positioning the country as a potential bridge for global interfaith cooperation.
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