KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA February 22, 2026 – Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim attended a special iftar (breaking fast) event on February 22, where he launched the “Rakan Masjid X Rakan Muda Ramadan” initiative, aimed at fostering closer ties between young people and mosques during the holy month of Ramadan. The event, organized by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, took place at the Federal Territory Mosque in Jalan Duta, Kuala Lumpur.
In a heartfelt address shared on his official X account, Anwar expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate with religious teachers (asatizah) and youth participants. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) and the Minister of Youth and Sports, praising their initiative to draw young Malaysians closer to Islamic institutions. “The efforts of these two ministers should be supported in elevating the status of young people as embodying the umbrella of piety in the madrasah of Ramadan and not being busy with issues that divide the ummah,” Anwar stated.
The Prime Minister also shared a personal anecdote from his morning discussion with his grandson following Subuh prayers, drawing lessons from Surah ‘Abasa in the Quran. He recounted the story of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) being gently rebuked by Allah for turning away from Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum, a blind companion eager to learn about Islam. Anwar emphasized the importance of sensitivity and prioritizing the needs of the disadvantaged, quoting the verses:
“عَبَسَ وَتَوَلَّىٰٓ (١) أَن جَآءَهُ ٱلْأَعْمَىٰ (٢) وَمَا يُدْرِيكَ لَعَلَّهُۥ يَزَّكَّىٰٓ (٣) أَوْ يَذَّكَّرُ فَتَنفَعَهُ ٱلذِّكْرَىٰٓ (٤)”
Translated as: “He frowned and turned away, because there came to him the blind man. But what could tell you that perhaps he might be purified or be reminded and the reminder would benefit him?” (Surah Abasa: 1-4).
Anwar underscored that such “small voices” may hold greater nobility in the eyes of Allah, urging future generations to cultivate respect, dedication to truth, and fear only of the Divine amid life’s trials.
The launch aligns with the government’s #MalaysiaMADANI vision, promoting progressive, inclusive development. Hashtags like #MADANIbekerja and #RancakkanMADANI accompanied Anwar’s post, which has garnered thousands of views and positive reactions online.
This initiative comes as Malaysia observes Ramadan, a time of spiritual reflection and community bonding, with similar programs expected to roll out nationwide to engage youth in religious and social activities.
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