SEOUL – The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, has chaired the 36th Executive Committee Meeting of the Regional Islamic Da’wah Council of Southeast Asia and the Pacific (RISEAP).
The high-level gathering in South Korea brought together the organisation’s leadership and representatives from across the member region.
The meeting served as a platform to assess the council’s accomplishments over the past year and to reinforce cooperative efforts among member nations.
A significant focus was placed on ongoing initiatives designed to support Muslim minority communities living throughout Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
Key agenda items included comprehensive reports on RISEAP’s activities throughout 2025. Updates were also received from the organisation’s Northern, Central, and Southern Zones, as well as from its Women’s Wing.
The committee reviewed the financial report for the 2024 period and engaged in discussions concerning strategic programmes planned for 2026. A proposal for the appointment of a new Deputy President for RISEAP was also tabled.
The Premier acknowledged the strong partnership between RISEAP and Muslim minorities in their respective countries. He commended the organisation’s sustained role in empowering communities and reinforcing social harmony.
He emphasised that this collaboration is a reflection of a shared spirit of unity and mutual support, which forms the core of RISEAP’s regional mission.
During his address, the Premier announced a significant new educational initiative. He outlined Sarawak’s commitment to contributing to human capital development in the Pacific Islands through a student exchange scheme.
“We are going to give space and attention to Pacific Islands children by sending them to Sarawak for a better education. It is for the betterment of the ummah because we want them to receive hospitality and knowledge in Sarawak, and when they return to their countries, they will help their communities,” he stated.
He further elaborated that international schools within Sarawak would be central to this endeavour. These institutions will provide quality education and facilitate cultural exchange for the incoming students.
This initiative is expected to foster greater understanding and build long-term friendships among the nations represented in RISEAP.
“The exchange of knowledge and values through education is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen international friendship and understanding. Sarawak welcomes students from our RISEAP partners and looks forward to deepening these educational ties,” the Premier added.
RISEAP is a non-governmental organisation that coordinates Islamic missionary activities across a vast region, encompassing Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
Its work often focuses on community development, education, and fostering interfaith dialogue in areas where Muslims are a minority.
The 36th Executive Committee Meeting is seen as a further milestone in bolstering solidarity among Muslim communities in the region.
It also reaffirms the active role that Sarawak continues to play in advancing causes related to education, inclusivity, and harmony on a regional stage.
