PUTRAJAYA MAR 16: Malaysia co-sponsored a United Nations (UN) General Assembly resolution proclaiming 15th March as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah said, the resolution initiated by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), was adopted by consensus at the UN General Assembly in New York today.
“The date 15th March was chosen, marking the attack on Muslim congregation during Friday prayer at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, killing 51 and injuring 40 others,” Saifuddin said in a statement here today
The statement added, other than OIC member states, the resolution was also co-sponsored by China, Cuba, Nicaragua, Russia, Uruguay, Venezuela, and the Philippines.
“The adoption of the resolution is timely, reflecting the urgent need to address increasing discrimination, xenophobia, intolerance and violence against Muslims across the globe. The resolution deplores all acts of violence against persons on the basis of their religion or belief, as well as attacks on religious sites, in violation of international law.
“Islam is a religion of peace and should not be associated with any acts of terrorism or extremism that deviate from its true teachings. Malaysia will continue to promote peaceful coexistence, harmonious relations and mutual respect among various countries, societies, and people of different faiths and convictions to combat Islamophobia, hate speech and other prejudices,” Saifuddin reiterated.
The Minister also stressed that as a family of nations, the international community should strengthen international efforts to foster a global dialogue on the promotion of a culture of peace co-existence and harmony at all levels.- Malaysia World News
