PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that the most effective response to racial and religious hatred is not anger or retaliation, but patience, wisdom and exemplary moral conduct.
In a message shared after attending the 3rd International Summit of Religious Leaders, Anwar acknowledged that Malaysia, despite being widely recognised as a model of multicultural harmony, continues to face challenges arising from racial and religious divisions.
He said the management of a diverse society demanded continuous effort, particularly at a time when differences of opinion and attempts to sow discord were becoming increasingly common.
“Managing a plural society is not an easy task, what more in an environment that often faces various challenges and differences of opinion. However, I believe that mutual respect, moderation and understanding among communities are important foundations for ensuring the stability and progress of the country,” he said in a Facebook post.
The Prime Minister said the issue was among the matters discussed during meetings and exchanges with religious leaders and scholars held on the sidelines of the international gathering.
Drawing attention to incidents involving the desecration of the Quran abroad, Anwar said Malaysia had deliberately chosen a constructive response instead of reacting emotionally.
“When faced with incidents of Quran burning, for example, Malaysia chose to respond positively by expanding efforts to print and distribute a million copies of the Quran along with translations in various languages,” he said.
Anwar said religious leaders and scholars continued to play a crucial role in guiding society through increasingly complex global challenges, underscoring the importance of preserving traditions of knowledge, ethical conduct and scholarship.
He added that Malaysia remained committed to exploring international cooperation that would benefit both Muslims and the wider global community, particularly in advancing education, deepening understanding of Islam and fostering societies anchored in knowledge and universal human values.
“Hopefully, efforts like this can continue to nurture a culture of knowledge, strengthen understanding among communities and project the true face of Islam, which is a religion that brings mercy, justice and kindness to all humanity,” he added.
His remarks come amid growing global concern over the rise of religious intolerance, online extremism and identity-based polarisation, with Malaysia positioning dialogue, education and mutual understanding as key instruments for safeguarding social harmony. - June 13, 2026
