Prominent Scholars, Global Intellectuals Support Madani Concept - Zulkifli Hasan

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 2 (Bernama) -- Prominent scholars and global intellectuals have expressed their support and optimism towards the MADANI Concept, said Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Dr Zulkifli Hasan.

Rebuking the criticism labelling the MADANI approach as 'jahiliah' (ignorant), which was posted on X, he said Malaysians should instead focus on more productive matters for nation-building.

"The Malaysia MADANI Concept has already been clearly explained in the Asian Renaissance, SCRIPT For a Better Malaysia and 'Membangun Negara MADANI," he said.

Zulkifli said community leaders and scholars whom he met in the United Kingdom in August last year had praised and expressed hope towards the MADANI Concept introduced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, which stemmed from Anwar's involvement in activism and intellectualism since he was young.

"I was intrigued by the article by the PMX (Anwar) in The Japan Times titled 'ASEAN's Second Renaissance is Now'…(where) the PMX wrote eloquently and elegantly, delving into the future and vision of the ASEAN Community," he said.

On Malaysia's role as ASEAN Chair this year under the theme "Inclusivity and Sustainability," Zulkifli praised Anwar's vision for this summit, particularly his commitment to ensuring that ASEAN's resurgence brings tangible results that advance peace, justice, and prosperity.

"As a Malaysian, I am proud that we are now a trendsetter and a thought leader in driving and leading ASEAN in the best possible way. Malaysia has become a regional and global reference point.

"Malaysians need to be engaged in more productive, constructive, and peaceful matters. We cannot afford to lose focus if we want to lead Malaysia towards greater excellence on the global stage," he added.

-- BERNAMA