PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, praising the Pope's enduring legacy as a moral beacon of compassion, humility, and justice in a tumultuous world.
"As the first pope from the Global South, Pope Francis's commitment to interfaith understanding, environmental stewardship, and the dignity of the marginalised extended far beyond the reach of the Catholic Church," Anwar stated in a Facebook post on Monday (April 21).
Anwar highlighted Pope Francis as a steadfast advocate for peace, noting that his efforts to build bridges across faiths and cultures earned respect worldwide, including in the Muslim community.
"He spoke with moral clarity on the immense suffering in Gaza, reminding the world that we must show the same compassion to all victims of violence, wherever they may be.
"He also championed the dignity of migrants and refugees, urging the international community to respond to their plight with humanity and conscience."
On a personal note, the Prime Minister recounted the honour of visiting Pope Francis during his early days at the Vatican. On behalf of the government and people of Malaysia, he extended his deepest condolences to the Holy See, Catholics worldwide, and especially the Catholic community in Malaysia.
