Umer Chapra’s Passing A Great Loss To Islamic Scholarship - PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, June 14 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed his condolences on the passing of renowned Islamic economist Professor Dr Muhammad Umer Chapra, describing him as one of the finest figures in the world of Islamic scholarship and intellectual thought.

Anwar said the passing of the scholar marked the end of a life wholly dedicated to the pursuit of justice, the advancement of ideas and the elevation of human dignity through knowledge.

“At a time when economics is often divorced from moral and humanitarian considerations, he emerged as a figure who reminded us that prosperity without justice is ultimately nothing more than a mirage — attractive in appearance, yet devoid of true meaning and well-being,” he said in a Facebook post today.

The Prime Minister said that through his writings and ideas, Chapra successfully revived the Islamic intellectual tradition that links progress with humanity, and growth with responsibility towards society.

Anwar said the scholar’s legacy would continue to serve as a guiding light for the ummah in its efforts to build a more just, humane and dignified economic system.

“May Allah SWT shower His mercy upon his soul, a friend and scholar who enlightened many,” he said.

Umer Chapra, recognised as one of the leading figures in modern Islamic economics who played a significant role in developing Saudi Arabia’s banking system and contributed to the advancement of financial institutions globally, was reported to have passed away recently at the age of 93.

-- BERNAMA