Don't give space to extremist groups: Anifah
Published on: Sunday, September 25, 2016
NEW YORK: Malaysia's Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman said extremist groups including Daesh (Islamic State ) that poses a threat of violent extremism and terrorism must not be given space to exploit the instability and turbulent situation in some parts of the Muslim world.He said the acts of terror by such extremist groups are contrary to the true Islamic teachings and principles and values. "In confronting this threat, we must provide counter narratives to their misguided teachings of Islam and must be vigilant that our youths, in particular, are not easily lured by their ideology and appeal to join their cause. We must erode this appeal.
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"To do so, we should focus on building sustainable and inclusive economies that provide opportunities for the people and give them hope for the future. We need to propagate in a relentless manner, the right path – that violence and brutality committed in the name of religion are totally unacceptable and deplorable," he said.Speaking at the Organisation of Islamic (OIC) Cooperation Annual Coordination Meeting in the 71st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) here, Anifah said there is a need to propagate in a relentless manner, the right path – that violence and brutality committed in the name of religion are totally unacceptable and deplorable.In this regard, he said Malaysia has been highlighting the importance of taking a middle path or wasatiyya, in their actions that embodies the Islamic concept of moderation whereby the approaches and actions of a Muslim should be moderate and just, even during adverse conditions.He said it also demands the practice of Islamic teachings in a holistic and balanced manner, which inculcates the values of peace, tolerance, understanding and mutual respect.
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Anifah said Malaysia has also called on the need for all to maintain spirit of fraternity and solidarity in overcoming challenges facing the Muslim communities.On Palestine's perennial issue, he said Malaysia has emphasized on the need for the international community to stop Israel from further violating internationally accepted norms and principles of human rights, and the rule of law.
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"As a way forward, it is paramount for the international community to exert pressure on the Israeli government to cease its illegal settlement policy, through all legal, diplomatic and economic channels."Peace talks between both sides should be revived with the objective to attain the two-state solution, whereby the people of Palestine and Israel could live peacefully side by side."In this respect, Malaysia is committed to playing an active role in contributing towards the attainment of a just, lasting and peaceful solution to this issue," Anifah said.On Muslim minorities and communities in non-OIC Member States such as in the Southern Philippines and Rohinya Muslims in Myanmar, he said Malaysia called on the OIC to exert greater efforts to realise the aspirations of these minorities to peace, security and development."On Muslims' situation in the Southern Philippines, Malaysia as the Facilitator, is pleased to note the re-launch of the Implementing Phase of the Comprehensive Agreement of the Bangsamoro in Kuala Lumpur last August. "As for the Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, which have been deprived of their fundamental rights and continue to face hardship in their own country, Malaysia will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the Rohingyas in order to alleviate their sufferings."We are also supportive of any efforts from the international community, including OIC, to address the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar," he said.Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
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