In a show of diplomatic and religious solidarity, His Eminence Sheikh Dr. Salah bin Muhammad Al-Budair, Imam and Khateeb of the revered Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, paid a courtesy visit to the Malaysian Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Muhammad Naim Mukhtar, in Kuala Lumpur. The meeting formed part of Sheikh Al-Budair’s official engagements during his participation at the International Qur’an Symposium held in the Malaysian capital.
During the high-level meeting, Sheikh Al-Budair lauded the unwavering commitment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the global advancement of Islam and the well-being of Muslims across the world. He specifically highlighted the strategic efforts of the Saudi Presidency for Religious Affairs at both the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, particularly in their custodianship of the Holy Qur’an and the propagation of its timeless message. According to the esteemed scholar, these sacred institutions remain pivotal in preserving the spiritual, educational, and moral foundations of the Muslim Ummah.
He also used the opportunity to express deep admiration for the Malaysian government’s notable contributions to Islamic education and Qur’anic promotion. Sheikh Al-Budair praised the Ministry of Islamic Affairs for its proactive role in organising Qur’anic activities and nurturing a faith-driven society rooted in moderation and peaceful coexistence. He acknowledged that Malaysia stands out as a model for integrating Islamic values into national policy, with the Qur’an occupying a distinguished position in the country’s religious, educational, and civic institutions.
Furthermore, the revered Imam underscored the importance of international cooperation between Islamic nations in the field of religious enlightenment, scholarly exchange, and the strengthening of moderate Islamic thought. He encouraged continued dialogue and collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia to further reinforce their shared vision of a balanced, Qur’an-centred Islamic identity that addresses the contemporary needs of the global Muslim community.
The visit reflects not only the warm diplomatic ties between Riyadh and Kuala Lumpur but also the shared responsibility both nations bear in upholding and promoting Islamic teachings, particularly through education and the strategic use of religious platforms. As Sheikh Al-Budair concluded his visit, he reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s enduring commitment to supporting genuine religious scholarship and fostering unity among Muslim nations through the noble message of the Qur’an.