PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is set to send a Cabinet representative to attend Pope Francis’ funeral in Vatican City on Saturday (April 26), says Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
“The Cabinet would like to extend its condolences on the passing of Pope Francis,” the Communications Minister said during his weekly press conference here on Wednesday (April 23).
Fahmi, who is also the government’s spokesperson, said Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick will sign the condolence book on behalf of the government at the Vatican Embassy in Malaysia.
He also said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed his admiration for the late Pope, especially for being outspoken on the Gaza conflict.
Pope Francis’ burial is set to take place on Saturday (April 26) at 10am in St Peter’s Square -- where he made his last appearance through an Easter Sunday blessing and a popemobile tour.
Various world leaders are expected to attend the funeral.
He died on Monday (April 21) at the age of 88, after suffering from a stroke and cardiac arrest.