PETALING JAYA: National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang has extended his condolences to the global Catholic community over the death of Pope Francis.
"His passing is not only a great loss to Catholics but is also felt by the entire global community that values humanity, justice and global peace," he said in a statement on Monday (April 21).
Aaron said Pope Francis was renowned for his tireless advocacy on global issues, including justice for Gaza.
"He continuously championed issues of poverty, refugees, social justice and especially justice for Gaza, which he also touched upon in his last Easter Sunday address.
"Pope Francis was known as a humble religious leader, full of love and courageous in championing the voices of the marginalised," he said.
Aaron also lauded Pope Francis as a religious leader who truly embodied unity by nurturing harmony amidst cultural and religious plurality.
"He embodied the true meaning of unity by calling for interfaith dialogue, respecting diversity and fostering harmony among diverse cultures and beliefs," he added.
Earlier, Vatican camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Ferrell announced in a statement that Pope Francis had died on Monday. He was 88.
