KL mufti meets archbishop in 'historic' event

Photo from Dr Zulkifli's Facebook page.

PETALING JAYA: A historic meeting took place between Kuala Lumpur Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim and Federal Territories Mufti Datuk Dr Zulkifli Mohamad al-Bakri on Thursday.

Describing the one-hour visit by the archbishop to his office as "unprecedented" and "historic", Dr Zulkifli said the meeting aimed to find "common ground" between the two.

"The move was refreshing, as this was the first time a religious leader has made a courtesy call to my office," he told The Star Online on Friday.

He said they both discussed various issues, particularly on the concept of a diverse society, mutual respect and tolerance among all religions.

"We looked at what we have in common, not our differences," said Dr Zulkifli, adding that they shared views on the importance of being tolerant towards each others' religion.

Dr Zulkifli also said the Archbishop invited him to visit the church, which he said he would consider.

"God willing, I will do it," he said.

Archbishop Julian Leow and Dr Zulkifli exchange hugs during the meet.

Earlier, the Muslim cleric thanked Global Unity Network, a non-governmental organisation for arranging the visit.

Dr Zulkifli said he was grateful for the joint effort made by his office, the NGO and Kuala Lumpur Archbishop for their efforts to build understanding and religious harmony, especially between Islam and Christianity.

"I am thankful to the reverend for this courtesy call. I would also like to thank Shah Kirit from the Global Unity Network for this noble effort. May Allah bless us all," he said.