MALAYSIA has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, warning that its effects have extended beyond the Middle East and are being felt across the wider Islamic world.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim made the remarks following a second round of discussions with leaders from Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Iran, Qatar and Jordan aimed at addressing the growing tensions in the region.
Speaking at the launch of the Mushaf Malaysia MADANI at the Kompleks Nasyrul Quran Putrahjaya today, Anwar highlighted the broader repercussions of the conflict, noting that while Israel and its supporters were the primary actors in recent attacks, “the impact of the war is widespread and extends beyond the Middle East.”
He added, “Israel, with extreme arrogance and imperialistic ambitions supported by the United States, has acted as an aggressor, launching attacks on Iran. Now the situation has become increasingly complex.
“I have engaged with leaders in Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, Turkiye and Iran. Malaysia, with the support of all Members of Parliament, condemns the attacks on Iran and has conveyed condolences over the loss of Iranian leaders and their families.”
Anwar stressed that Malaysia’s diplomacy is guided by close relationships and long-standing friendships with countries in the region.
“We also conveyed our concerns because although the perpetrators are Israel and its supporters, the effects are felt throughout the Islamic world, especially in the Middle East, Turkiye and Azerbaijan,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that Malaysia has appreciated assurances from Iranian officials that the crisis will not escalate into intra-Islamic conflict, and reiterated the country’s commitment to active diplomacy.
“We pray that this crisis can be resolved,” he said.
Addressing domestic implications, Anwar highlighted the economic impact of the conflict, particularly on fuel subsidies.
He stated that the federal government has had to increase subsidies by RM4.6 billion for Sabah and Sarawak due to rising global prices, alongside an additional RM2 billion per month to maintain current fuel prices.
“At current rates, this equates to an extra RM24 billion annually, and costs will continue to rise if petroleum prices increase further,” he said.
Acknowledging criticism from opposition figures and segments of social media, Anwar emphasised the gravity of the situation, saying, “We are facing a disaster, and its impact is real. It now costs an additional RM2 billion per month as long as we maintain current prices.
“I understand there are opposition members and social media commentators who continue to criticise us, but that is the reality.”
He concluded by underlining that the crisis should serve as a lesson in the importance of unity and cooperation among Muslim nations and the international community.
“Peace and prosperity cannot be maintained without solidarity and collaboration between Islamic countries and the broader global community,” he said.
Madinatul Al-Quran Putrajaya as Global ‘Ummah’ Project
Separately, the Prime Minister has proposed that the Madinatul Al-Quran Putrajaya be developed as an international “Ummah project” involving prominent Islamic scholars and institutions from Malaysia and abroad.
Anwar said the proposal would be discussed soon with Yayasan Restu and other relevant stakeholders as part of efforts to expand the role of the complex beyond its original scope.
“The plan to build, like Madinatul Quran, God willing, will be discussed within a day or two with brother Abdul Latiff. There is a good idea from the Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, to make this an ‘Ummah’ project involving both domestic and international participation.
“This would make it not just a building, but its purpose would be much broader than originally planned, so that it could serve as a centre for Mushaf printing as well as a major centre for Quranic studies and research institutions in the region,” he said.
The proposed development would also involve collaboration with the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia and several local universities to strengthen its role as a centre for Quranic scholarship and research.
Anwar was speaking at the launch of the Malaysia MADANI Mushaf at the Nasyrul Quran Complex.
Earlier, he officiated the launch of Malaysia’s first hybrid Quran manuscript, which combines traditional Islamic calligraphy with digital innovation. The publication includes integrated QR codes that allow readers to access translations in multiple languages, tajwid guidance and STEM-related content linked to Quranic verses. - March 16, 2026
