Anwar Receives Phone Call From Sheikh Al-Azhar, Discuss Efforts On Understanding Of Islam

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 22 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sheikh al-Azhar al-Sharif Prof Dr Ahmad al-Tayyeb discussed the continuation of dakwah efforts and Islamic studies to expand religious understanding for the benefit of the entire community.

In a Facebook post, Anwar said the matter was discussed over the phone after the prominent cleric contacted him to inquire about his health and offer prayers following his recovery from surgery.

"I greatly appreciate his prayers and thoughts and inform him that the surgery went smoothly, while the recovery process is also going very well, thank God. We also talked about the continuation of the dakwah and study efforts in expanding the understanding of Islam.

"His views and guidance will continue to be an important guideline in upholding the noble tradition of Islamic knowledge and bringing blessings to the entire community," he said in the message.

Anwar said in the conversation that he also brought up Sheikh al-Azhar al-Sharif's previous visit to Malaysia which left a very deep impression on all Muslims in Malaysia.

"God willing, we hope to meet again in Cairo or Kuala Lumpur to continue our da'wah efforts and the expansion of knowledge for the benefit of the entire community," he said.

In a separate message, the Prime Minister said he also had the opportunity to speak with the Secretary-General of the Council of Muslim Elders (Majlis Hukama Muslimin) Mohamed Abdelsalam who asked about his health and offered prayers following his health condition.

Anwar said he also asked about the health of Mohamed's wife who is currently receiving treatment in hospital, and prayed for her speedy recovery.

"We then touched on the desire of Sheikh al-Azhar al-Sharif, Prof Dr Ahmad al-Tayyeb, to return to visit Malaysia, as well as several new endeavors, especially in strengthening Malaysia's relationship with al-Azhar and nurturing the idea of ​​a simple, free and authoritative Islam.

"I greatly appreciate the friendship, support and trust shown by Mohamed Abdelsalam and Sheikh al-Azhar al-Sharif," he said.

Anwar said he was also touched by the appreciation given by his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail as an exemplary woman for her steadfastness, loyalty and sacrifice throughout his struggle.

"God willing, all these endeavours and cooperation will continue to be strengthened for the benefit of the people and universal well-being," he said.

-- BERNAMA