KERALAM: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim received the inaugural Sheikh Abu Bakar Foundation Excellence Award in recognition of his more than five decades of public service and contributions to education, Islamic scholarship, institutional development, international dialogue and human well-being.
The award was presented to Anwar by Grand Mufti of India, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, at the Gathering of Honour for the Prime Minister of Malaysia event at Markazu Saquafathi Sunniya, also known as Jamia Markaz, here on Sunday (Sept 13).
As part of the presentation, the Prime Minister received a plaque and a manuscript of Sahih Bukhari.
The recognition was presented during Anwar's visit to Jamia Markaz, one of India's premier Islamic institutions, as part of his official visit to India aimed at further strengthening Malaysia-India bilateral relations and exploring new areas of cooperation.
In a citation read during the ceremony, the foundation's Rector, Dr Roshan Nurani, said Anwar had demonstrated perseverance, institutional vision and a sustained commitment to dialogue, equitable development, education and human dignity throughout his public life.
He said Anwar's contribution extended beyond political office, particularly through his efforts to preserve and disseminate the Islamic scholarly tradition.
"With profound respect that Sheikh Abu Bakar Foundation confers upon Anwar Ibrahim the first Sheikh Abu Bakar Foundation Excellence Award in recognition of his distinguished contribution to public service, education, economic and institutional development, Islamic thought and international dialogue, as well as in honour of a life dedicated to shaping society through knowledge, leadership, and service to humanity," he said.
Earlier, Anwar held a meeting with Sheikh Abubakr after attending the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.
Sheikh Abubakr, who serves as the 10th Grand Mufti of India, was honoured in Malaysia with the prestigious Hijri awards in recognition of his scholarly contributions and humanitarian work.
The Jamia Markaz has also developed academic cooperation with a number of leading universities in Malaysia. – Bernama
