Knowledge, Moral Values Must Anchor Progress In Age Of Technological Advancement - PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that the pursuit of knowledge and the strengthening of moral values must remain the foundation of efforts to build a MADANI nation, particularly at a time when nations around the world are racing to embrace technological advancements.

He said a country's progress should not be measured solely by technological achievements and physical development, but must also be guided by faith, ethics and human values.

“We see countries across the world today competing to advance new technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), but the core foundation must remain knowledge and moral values,” he said when speaking at the “Majlis Ilmu MADANI” event at the Al-Sultan Abdullah Mosque, Menara Merdeka 118, here tonight.

Anwar said technological mastery and modern development cannot be separated from the need to cultivate faith, integrity and strong human values, as these elements are essential in ensuring that progress benefits society as a whole.

He said Muslims once led the world through their commitment to knowledge, scholarship and civilisation-building, but gradually fell behind when that intellectual tradition was neglected.

According to the prime minister, Islam had historically contributed significantly to the development of world civilisation and exerted influence across various regions through the rich legacy of knowledge and thought advanced by earlier Muslim scholars.

The “Majlis Ilmu MADANI” programme, organised by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM), brought together members of the public from various backgrounds to participate in religious lectures and intellectual discourse.

Anwar also expressed appreciation to prominent Islamic scholars who attended the event, including Sheikh Muhammad Hydara al-Jilani and Habib Ali Zaenal Abidin Al Hamid.

Also present was Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Dr Zulkifli Hasan.

-- BERNAMA