Kuala Lumpur, 30 November 2023 (TDI): On Wednesday, Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim and Queen Azizah of Malaysia attended the Islam and Confucianism Dialogue Program held in Kuala Lumpur.
Ouyang Yujing, Ambassador of the Republic of China to Malaysia graced the event with his presence. China’s Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation Chang Lih Kang was also present.
Professor Dr. Osman Bakar, who presently holds the Al-Ghazali Chair in Epistemology and Civilization Reform Studies at the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC), International Islamic University of Malaysia (UIAM) was there as well.
This dialogue stems from the organization of the International Seminar on Islam and Confucianism: Conversation of Civilizations, which took place at the University of Malaya in 1995, in which Anwar Ibrahim also participated and delivered a speech.
In his keynote speech today, the Prime Minister thanked Professor Dr. Osman Bakar for his extensive efforts in this type of program. Continuous efforts are required to promote respect for diversity among people of many cultures and origins.
He also mentioned recognizing the teachings of Islam and Confucianism, amongst other things, urging them to strive for a future that is not just advanced in technology but also morally enlightened.
Malaysian Premier highlighted that we must offer a model of a more inclusive society in which discussion that fosters concord may flourish despite differences in race, religion, and background.
He also had the opportunity to connect virtually with a close associate, Professor Tu Wei Ming, Professor Emeritus and Senior Fellow of the Asia Centre, Harvard University, United States of America, who is interested in providing his expertise and thoughts on the problem of dialogue and civilization.
Ambassador Ouyang Yujing, lauded leader Anwar Ibrahim today for his efforts in encouraging civilizational discussion, cooperation, and greater comprehension between Islam and Confucianism.
Ouyang additionally conveyed a “warm welcome” to persons from Islamic countries who desire to learn the truth about China’s religious freedom.
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He stated that, like Malaysia, China places a high value on the preservation and transmission of the languages and cultural practices of all ethnic groups in the nation.
He claimed that Xinjiang was one of the most important Chinese Muslim settlements in the People’s Republic.
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