Scholars Must Guide Societies Towards Peace, Unity - DPM Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 29 (Bernama) -- Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today called on scholars to play a greater role in guiding societies towards peace, unity and justice in the face of global challenges.

He said the responsibility of scholars was not only to preserve knowledge, but also to defend truth, respond to hate with wisdom, replace ignorance with understanding and build bridges where others build walls.

"This is the responsibility of our scholars, our intellectuals, and our leaders of thought. Yes, we may have differences. Yes, at times we may agree to disagree but above all, as an ummah, we share a greater goal and that goal can only be achieved when we stand together in unity. 

"This is no ordinary gathering. It is a coming together of intellect and integrity, of faith and foresight," he said in his keynote address at the opening of the 3rd Council of Southeast Asia Scholars at the Federal Territory Mosque here. 

Also present were Muslim World League secretary-general Sheikh Dr Mohammad Abdul Kareem al-Issa and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar.

Ahmad Zahid said Malaysia as ASEAN Chairman in 2025 was also committed to strengthening peace in the region, citing the nation's role in facilitating reconciliation between Cambodia and Thailand, encouraging dialogue in Myanmar and easing tensions in Southern Thailand.

"Peace is not a luxury - it is the very foundation of progress. Without peace, investment cannot flow. Without stability, development cannot endure," he said.

On Palestine, he reaffirmed the nation's stand, condemning the expansion of illegal settlements and the 'Greater Israel' agenda, which violates international law and offends basic human dignity.

He noted Malaysia's recent announcement of RM100 million in additional humanitarian aid to Palestine, bringing the total contribution to more than RM200 million in recent years.

Ahmad Zahid also urged scholars to advance joint research, collaborative publications and cross-border academic exchanges to help Southeast Asia confront pressing challenges such as climate change, inequality and digital disruption.

"Let this be our shared pledge: that scholarship will not remain hidden on bookshelves, but will breathe life into our societies, shape policies and uplift communities," he said. 

Meanwhile, Mohd Na'im, in his welcoming address, said the 3rd Council of Southeast Asia Scholars was jointly organised by the government of Malaysia and the Muslim World League, continuing a collaboration that began in 2022.

"This conference holds great significance in fostering and strengthening unity and genuine cooperation towards the agenda of the ummah, the pursuit of peace and universal harmony, as well as the noble endeavour of advancing Islamic civilisation and uplifting the ummah," he said.

This year's edition brought together participants and delegates from across the globe, including academics, intellectuals, political leaders and religious figures, whose presence further elevated the stature of the gathering.

-- BERNAMA