INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION PROVES ANWAR'S LEADERSHIP RESPECTED BY MUSLIM WORLD - MOHD NA’IM

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recognition as the 10th most influential Muslim figure in the world affirms that his leadership is highly respected not only within the Muslim community but also on the global stage.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, said the recognition, made through the publication of 'The World's 500 Most Influential Muslims 2026' by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre (RISSC), marks a significant achievement for Malaysia.

“In fact, this recognition also serves as a tribute to Malaysia by the international community for the Prime Minister’s achievements, principles, and contributions in leading the nation and addressing global issues through the values of centrality, moderation, balance, and wisdom.

“It also underscores his leadership in the Islamic and international arena through the promotion of peace, civilisation, and shared prosperity, as well as his diplomatic approach in resolving conflicts and fostering economic cooperation based on respect and sovereignty,” he said in a Facebook post.

He said the recognition reflects the world’s acceptance of Anwar’s leadership philosophy, which champions justice, humanity, and universal well-being as outlined under the Malaysia MADANI framework.

Mohd Na'im said Anwar’s advancement from 15th place in the 2025 edition to 10th place this year demonstrates that the Malaysia MADANI concept, initiated by the Prime Minister, has not only resonated domestically but also gained international recognition.

“His unwavering commitment to justice for the Palestinian people and Malaysia’s role as a peace mediator in the Southeast Asian region have further strengthened the country’s image as a principled and constructive Islamic nation that upholds universal humanitarian values,” he said.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (ABIM)  president Ahmad Fahmi Mohd Samsudin, in a statement, said that the recognition was a manifestation of the international community's confidence in Anwat's leadership, which is firm in defending truth and universal human principles.

He said Anwar’s consistent and courageous stance on the Palestinian issue, particularly his criticism of the hypocrisy of the great powers over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, further underscores his moral integrity and global standing.

“This recognition is deeply meaningful as it also symbolises the continuation of Anwar’s lifelong struggle, which began with Islamic youth activism through the founding of ABIM in 1971.

“From the very beginning, he has championed the causes of education, social justice, and the empowerment of the oppressed within the framework of Islamic da’wah and national development,” he said.

Ahmad Fahmi added that Anwar’s leadership within ASEAN has also drawn international respect, with Malaysia successfully strengthening the bloc’s position as a coalition of principled and forward-looking nations that serves as a strategic bridge between major powers.

“The Prime Minister’s ability to guide ASEAN on issues such as inclusive economy, digital transformation, and regional peace has bolstered investor confidence and positioned Malaysia as a credible thought leader in Southeast Asia,” he said.

In the 2026 edition of ’The World's 500 Most Influential Muslims’,  Anwar is listed among the top 50 global Muslim figures alongside the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who ranks first; the King of Saudi Arabia, King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al-Saud, in eighth place; and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who ranks 15th.

-- BERNAMA