Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has opened his official programme in South Africa with a significant engagement session involving the country’s Islamic leadership.
The meeting, held on the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, provided a platform for both sides to exchange views and explore avenues to strengthen the development of the ummah.
During the dialogue, Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s readiness to deepen cooperation in the halal sector with African nations.
He highlighted Malaysia’s expertise in halal certification and capacity building, noting that such collaboration could add value to local Islamic communities across the continent.
“Malaysia is prepared to strengthen cooperation in the halal field with African countries, including certification and capacity building,” he said, underscoring the potential for shared growth.
The Prime Minister stressed that Malaysia’s commitment to elevating Islam’s dignity is rooted in values of prosperity, tolerance, and kindness.
He emphasised the importance of education, prudent da’wah, and dialogue between civilisations, while encouraging closer cooperation with South Africa’s Islamic community.
These efforts, he explained, are essential to nurturing a stronger and more resilient ummah in the face of global challenges.
As a gesture of brotherhood, Anwar presented a special edition copy of the Quran with a rehal, along with four boxes of Qurans featuring English translation and tajwid.
The symbolic donation was warmly received, reflecting Malaysia’s intent to foster cultural and spiritual ties with South Africa’s Muslim community.
The engagement session comes as Malaysia positions itself as ASEAN Chair 2025, with Anwar using his visit to Johannesburg to highlight Malaysia’s broader role in promoting solidarity among Global South nations.
His outreach to Islamic leaders complements Malaysia’s diplomatic agenda, reinforcing the country’s image as a partner in both economic and spiritual development.
Observers note that halal cooperation could open new opportunities for African economies, particularly in food production, certification, and export markets.
Malaysia’s established halal ecosystem is seen as a model that could help African nations expand their participation in the global halal industry, which continues to grow rapidly.
Anwar’s initiative reflects Malaysia’s dual approach at the G20 Summit: advancing regional and global economic priorities while also strengthening cultural and religious ties.
His engagement with South Africa’s Islamic leadership underscores the importance of faith-based diplomacy in building bridges across continents.
