Malaysia reaffirms commitment to combat Islamophobia

Collaborative efforts are essential to build a world that respects and cherishes diversity – March 15

Malaysia reaffirms commitment to combat Islamophobia

Amid heightened hatred and violence against Islam and Muslims worldwide, a united front is crucial to foster harmonious relations and peaceful coexistence

MALAYSIA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to combat Islamophobia and all acts of violence and hatred directed at individuals based on their religion or beliefs.

In a statement on Saturday, Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry stressed that amid heightened hatred and violence against Islam and Muslims worldwide, a united front is crucial to foster harmonious relations and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and beliefs.

“At multilateral forums, Malaysia consistently promotes understanding and cooperation among different cultures, civilisations, and religions to foster peace and harmony among nations.

“In this context, Malaysia reiterates its call for the timely appointment of the United Nations Special Envoy dedicated to combating Islamophobia,” Bernama cited the statement released in conjunction with the commemoration of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

The ministry added that, on its part, Malaysia has appointed a Special Adviser on Peacebuilding, Reconciliation, and Combating Islamophobia to demonstrate its commitment and seriousness in addressing this issue.

“Collaborative efforts are essential to build a world that respects and cherishes diversity, where understanding and coexistence can prevail.

“Malaysia stands resolute in its endeavour to address Islamophobia and promote a culture of tolerance and peace, based on respect for human rights and diversity of religions and beliefs,” it said.

It also called to address Islamophobia at its root and at various levels of engagement, particularly through the United Nations General Assembly, the Human Rights Council, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

“Open dialogues should always be encouraged to diffuse misunderstandings or misinterpretations,” Bernama reported it saying.

The United Nations has designated March 15 as International Day to Combat Islamophobia and it has been observed annually since 2022.

Reject bigotry and discrimination, UN chief says

Earlier, in a message marking Saturday’s International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Secretary-General António Guterres warned of racial profiling and discriminatory policies that violate human rights and dignity, to outright violence against individuals and places of worship.

“This is part of a wider scourge of intolerance, extremist ideologies, and attacks against religious groups and vulnerable populations,” UN News reported him saying, adding that when one group is attacked, “the rights and freedoms of all are at risk”.

He urged everyone around the world to reject and eradicate bigotry, and to speak out against xenophobia and discrimination. He also called on governments to foster social cohesion and protect religious freedom, and for online platforms to curb hate speech and harassment.

“On this International Day to Combat Islamophobia, let us work together to uphold equality, human rights and dignity, and build inclusive societies where everyone, regardless of their faith, can live in peace and harmony. – March 15, 2025

Wisma Putra, International Day to Combat Islamophobia, United Nations, António Guterres commitment