In a thought-provoking address, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlighted a crucial factor that often goes unnoticed in discussions about civilization’s success. According to him, while economic, social, educational, and technological aspects play vital roles, the ultimate determinant of a civilization’s fate lies in the integrity of its leadership. Anwar underscored the significance of a clear conscience among leaders in the creation and sustenance of thriving societies.
Read Story In Detail
Speaking at the “Majlis Ilmu Madani and Dialogue Session with the Prime Minister,” which featured officials from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) and religious agencies at Seri Perdana, Anwar stressed that neglecting values and morals in the development agenda can lead to the collapse of even the most advanced civilizations.
“In a modern world with advanced technology, there must be values and morals. Civilizations collapsed not because of economic or social issues, but because there were no values and morals, that is why governance was broken. When governance is weak, the nation will fall,” Anwar stated.
Since taking office as the head of the unity government last November, Anwar has made it his primary mission to elevate Malaysia’s global standing. He emphasized that his leadership, supported by Cabinet ministers representing diverse racial and religious backgrounds, aims to demonstrate Malaysia’s commitment to Islamic principles while enhancing the nation’s prestige.
Reflecting on his role as Finance Minister, Anwar asserted, “I hold this post, Alhamdulillah… and I feel comfortable. I do not need millions of ringgit to buy properties. I don’t need that, but I want to really prove that in Malaysia, there are Muslim Malays who hold firm to the teachings of Islam and can raise the dignity of the country.”
Anwar also highlighted Jakim’s expanded role under his leadership, with the department’s advisory services and views being sought in various national governance matters. He expressed appreciation for the diverse perspectives presented by the participating agencies.
The event, attended by approximately 300 Jakim personnel from across the nation, included a Maghrib prayer led by Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque Imam, Zulkeffly Adimun, as well as prayers and advice sessions by Federal Territories Mufti, Associate Professor Datuk Luqman Abdullah. The knowledge-sharing sessions, initiated by Anwar on December 22, 2022, at Seri Perdana, the official prime minister’s residence, have featured renowned scholars from around the world, such as the Grand Imam of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Palestine, Sheikh Dr Ekrima Sabri; United Kingdom religious scholar, Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Saad Al-Maliki Al-Azhari Al-Hasani; and religious scholar from Gambia, Syeikh Muhammad Haydara Al-Jilani.