MUSLIM WORLD SEEKS STRONGER GLOBAL ROLE, SAYS ISIS CHAIRMAN

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 15 (Bernama) -- The recent Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit in Riyadh underscores a renewed commitment within the Muslim world to tackle pressing global challenges, said ISIS Malaysia Chairman Datuk Prof Dr Mohd Faiz Abdullah, suggesting this unity could position the Muslim bloc as a formidable global force.

In his latest column shared with Bernama, Faiz noted that the summit, attended by leaders from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the League of Arab States, offered “an unequivocal condemnation of Israeli aggression” and reflected a shared resolve among Muslim countries to tackle issues ranging from economic instability to climate change.

“This gathering was more than a symbolic display of solidarity.

“It highlighted a growing determination in the Muslim world to respond collectively to the global challenges we face, from conflict to climate change, with a unified and steadfast voice,” he wrote. 

Faiz expressed optimism about the potential for a stronger Muslim voice on the global stage.

“For the first time in a while, it may seem highly possible that the Muslim world will be able to provide a steadfast and collective voice for justice and progress.”

The Nov 11 summit also marked a turning point in intra-Muslim relations, with rapprochement emerging between Gulf Arab states and Iran, and improving ties between Egypt and Turkiye.

Faiz described these developments as “encouraging signs that long-standing issues can yield to diplomacy, patience, and a shared vision of co-existence.”

“Decades of mutual suspicion cannot vanish overnight, but this summit revealed a new chapter, one where countries once divided by historical grievances are starting to see the benefits of unity and cooperation,” he said.

On similar development, Faiz also praised Malaysia’s expanding role within the Muslim world under Anwar’s leadership.

“Malaysia, although on the geographic periphery, is now seen as a key voice in the Global South, advocating for political stability in the Middle East and fostering collaboration,” he said. 

Malaysia’s upcoming ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, he added, presents further opportunities to influence regional cooperation, with Malaysia hosting an ASEAN-GCC-China Summit to boost trade and combat extremism.

Highlighting Anwar’s recent discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Faiz noted the Saudi leader’s commitment to attending next year’s trilateral summit. 

“This shows a resolve to go beyond mere discussion and secure tangible achievements, which is essential if ASEAN is to move past its reputation as a ‘talk shop,’” he said.

Faiz also pointed to Anwar’s address at Egypt’s Al-Azhar University, where he called for a balance between knowledge and moral values, describing it as crucial to avoiding “the clashing rocks of radicalism and intolerance.”

As Malaysia advances its technology and data sectors, Faiz observed that the country could serve as a bridge for technological growth in Muslim-majority nations. 

“Our role in these critical sectors allows us to bring modern expertise to other Muslim countries and ensures the responsible, ethical use of technology,” he wrote, suggesting that this approach could address regional inequalities rather than exacerbate them.

-- BERNAMA