KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it is best to let the issue concerning the extradition of Islamic preacher Dr Zakir Naik rest for a while, but only if he does not harm Malaysia-India relations.
He said Zakir, who travels abroad and returns to Malaysia occasionally, has been inactive here and not made any statements against either India or Malaysia.
"We do appreciate the concern expressed by some quarters here (in India), but I think as long as Zakir Naik does not create issues between Malaysia and India and the security of the nation, I think we let the matter rest,” he said in an interview with India Today Global which was shared on YouTube on Thursday (Aug 22).
The interview was conducted during Anwar's official visit to India from Aug 19 to 21.
According to media reports, Zakir has been wanted by Indian authorities since 2016 for money laundering and inciting extremism through hate speech.
Anwar said Malaysia might consider India’s request to extradite the controversial preacher if the country provides more evidence.
"Of course, we must respect the rule of law and will not condone any transgressions,” he said.
On another note, Anwar said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister Dr S. Jaishankar assured the country would reciprocate Malaysia's visa-free entry arrangement for Indian nationals to facilitate people-to-people exchanges.
"Malaysians are very keen to see Indian culture and arts – not only Bollywood – but beyond that. I've mentioned some of the great literature and writings that are quite familiar,” he said.
Anwar said Malaysia is experiencing exponential growth in tourists from India following the introduction of visa-free entry for Indian citizens for stays of up to 30 days, effective from Dec 1, 2023, until Dec 31, 2024. – Bernama
