Malaysian PM meets Italian Muslim leaders to promote unity and combat Islamophobia.

ROME||July 4, 2025: Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim held a meaningful meeting with members of Italy’s Muslim community during his official visit to Rome, underscoring Malaysia’s commitment to promoting moderation, tolerance, and global Islamic solidarity.

The meeting was attended by Imam Yahya Pallavicini, Vice President of the Italian Islamic Religious Community (COREIS), and Abdellah Redouane, Secretary-General of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Italy, which oversees the Grand Mosque of Rome.

In a statement, Anwar said the session provided an opportunity for open dialogue on strengthening ummah development, particularly in areas such as education, religious outreach (dakwah), and strategic collaboration to address rising Islamophobia in Europe and beyond.

“We exchanged views on how to wisely and prudently confront challenges facing the Muslim community, especially the issue of Islamophobia. I reaffirmed Malaysia’s firm commitment to upholding Islam as a religion of moderation, harmony, and coexistence,” Anwar stated.

He also emphasized the importance of international partnerships between Malaysia and Islamic communities abroad, especially through cultural and educational initiatives that promote mutual understanding.

As a gesture of goodwill and solidarity, Anwar presented a special edition of the Quran to the local Muslim community, along with 10 translated copies in Italian, symbolizing the shared values of faith, knowledge, and unity. Anwar also made a contribution to support the welfare and activities of the community.

The engagement forms part of Anwar’s broader effort to promote Malaysia’s Maqasid Syariah-inspired diplomacy, centered on compassion, knowledge, and peace across cultures and religious communities.