PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is set to send a Cabinet Minister to attend the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City on Saturday, 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 yesterday.
Fahmi, who is also the government’s spokesperson, said Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick (pic) would 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.
“The Prime Minister holds great respect for the late Pope’s contributions,” he said.
Pope Francis’ burial is set to take place on Saturday 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 at the age of 88, after suffering from a stroke.
The late Pope, who hails from Argentina had spent five weeks in hospital after battling a double pneumonia.
He was the first Latin American to lead the Catholic Church.
