Latest news with #MohdAzmiAbdulHamid
Malaysia Sun
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Malaysia Sun
World Uyghur Congress welcomes MAPIM's strong appeal to ASEAN on Uyghur rights
Munich [Germany] May 22 (ANI): The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) has expressed support for the Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations (MAPIM), which has urged ASEAN leaders to take strong action regarding serious human rights violations against the Uyghurs. This appeal was made before the ASEAN Summit 2025, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, as announced by WUC on X. MAPIM has called on all ASEAN representatives to prioritise the Uyghur crisis in the summit discussions and to adhere to the principles of justice and human rights as specified in international law. The organisation noted that both groups face systematic oppression that may amount to crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. The statement pointed out numerous reports of arbitrary detention, torture, forced labour, and cultural erasure targeting the Uyghur population, as highlighted in the MAPIM release. In his remarks, MAPIM President Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid emphasised that ASEAN cannot stay silent in light of such atrocities. He urged the regional group to issue a unified statement condemning these violations, take diplomatic and legal measures to ensure accountability, and strive for sustainable solutions that safeguard the right to life, dignity, and identities of the affected communities, according to MAPIM release. The World Uyghur Congress stressed that a principled approach rooted in rights by ASEAN is essential for justice, regional credibility, and the safeguarding of minority communities, according to WUC's shared post on X. For years, Uyghur Muslims have endured harsh repression by China, characterised by systemic human rights violations and cultural erasure. The Chinese government's oppression of Uyghur Muslims includes extensive surveillance, arbitrary detention in 'reeducation' camps, forced labour, and attempts to eliminate religious and cultural identity. The Chinese authorities deny these abuses, framing their actions as anti-terrorism efforts. International organisations and human rights advocates have condemned these policies as crimes against humanity and potentially genocidal. (ANI)
Malaysia Sun
11-05-2025
- Politics
- Malaysia Sun
Hajj Can Be Catalyst for Muslim Unity, Resistance
In an exclusive interview with Tasnim News Agency, Dr. Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid, the president of Malaysian Islamic Organizations Consultative Council (Mapim), emphasized the untapped potential of the Hajj pilgrimage as a force for Islamic unity and resistance against oppression. As this years Hajj unfolds under the theme: "Hajj: A Quranic Journey, Solidarity, and Support for the Oppressed Palestine,"he shared strategic insights on how the pilgrimage can serve as a platform for reform, dialogue, and collective action across the Muslim world. The following is the full text of the interview with the Malaysian scholar: Tasnim: In your view, what are the key capacities of the great Hajj congregation in promoting Islamic unity, advancing the progress of Muslim countries, strengthening friendships, and reducing conflicts? Abdul Hamid:The Hajj is a divine convergence of the global Ummah. It brings Muslims of every race, language, and culture together in a single act of devotion. It holds immense potential to foster Islamic unity by dissolving the divisions of nationhood, ethnicity, and sect. In that sacred space, we are reminded of our shared qiblah, shared faith, and shared destiny. Hajj offers a rare platform for dialogue among leaders, scholars, and common pilgrims. It is a space where collective solutions to economic injustice, political fragmentation, and moral decline can be collectively imagined. It strengthens friendships by building people-to-people solidarity and reduces conflicts by reviving the ethos of fraternity, mercy, and justice that defines Islam. Tasnim: Do you believe the Islamic world has fully utilized the immense potential of Hajj in past years? If not, what has been missing? Abdul Hamid:No, the Islamic world has not fully utilized the spiritual and strategic potential of Hajj. For too long, the pilgrimage has been confined to its personal rituals, while its role as a collective spiritual congress of the Ummah remains underdeveloped. Whats missing is intentional coordinationstructured platforms for intergovernmental, civil society, and scholarly dialogue during Hajj. The absence of joint action plans, political consensus, and intellectual exchange has deprived Hajj of its historical role as a vehicle for reform and unity. There is also a lack of integration between the spiritual experience and social responsibilities of Muslims post-Hajj. Tasnim: What practical strategies would you suggest to better harness the Hajj for improving relations among Islamic nations and peoples? Abdul Hamid:First, we need to institutionalize a Hajj Dialogue Summita parallel gathering of scholars, youth, civil society actors, and leaders to discuss the challenges facing the Ummah. Second, we must develop Pilgrim Diplomacy by facilitating structured intercultural exchanges and solidarity circles among pilgrims from various regions and schools of thought. Third, Hajj should be used as a platform to issue joint declarations and resolutions by using the momentum of Hajj to release moral declarations on unity, justice, and peace to guide global Muslim action. Finally, we should create Hajj Legacy Programs to equip pilgrims to act as ambassadors of peace and unity in their communities after returning, turning Hajj into a launchpad for reform movements. Tasnim: How do you think this years Hajj can contribute to supporting the oppressed people of Palestine? What do you believe are the expectations of the people of Gaza from this year's pilgrims? Abdul Hamid:This years Hajj must carry the spirit of resistance and solidarity with Palestine. Pilgrims must raise global awareness through symbolic gestures, coordinated dua, wear unified symbols of support, and advocate for the liberation of Al-Aqsa, which is deeply connected to the Hajjs spiritual geography. The people of Gaza expect pilgrims to remember them not as an act of pity, but through courageous action. They hope for voices to be raised, for leaders to be moved, and for Hajj to not remain silent while their blood is shed. Hajj can be a sacred protest against occupation and injustice. Tasnim: What special initiatives have Islamic countries including yours planned this year to utilize the capacities of Hajj? What is your key advice to pilgrims? Abdul Hamid:While many Islamic countries have focused on logistical improvements and health protocols, there remains a need for spiritual and strategic mobilization. In Malaysia, there are growing calls for Hajj missions to include educational modules on global Muslim issuesespecially on Palestine. My key advice to pilgrims is this: let your Hajj be not just a personal journey of purification, but a renewal of your commitment to the Ummah. Let your ihram be a declaration of solidarity. Let your tears at Arafah include the pain of Gaza, Kashmir, and Uyghur Muslims. You return not just purified, but as a bearer of a sacred responsibility. Tasnim: What potential does Hajj hold for enhancing unity between Shiiteand Sunni Muslims? In your opinion, how can we best benefit from this opportunity? Abdul Hamid:Hajj dissolves all human divisions before the oneness of Allah. In the plain of Arafah and the Tawaf around the Kaaba, no Sunni or Shiitelabel mattersonly that one is Muslim. This is a powerful opportunity to cultivate mutual respect, dismantle prejudice, and emphasize shared beliefs. To benefit, we must encourage open, respectful engagement between scholars and pilgrims of different schools, promote common rituals and spiritual experiences, and reject all sectarian provocations. The Hajj must be a zone of sacred unity, not politicized hostility. Hajj offers one of the most powerful platforms for reconciling differences and strengthening unity between Shiite and Sunni Muslims. When millions of believersregardless of sectstand shoulder to shoulder in ihram, perform the same rites, and call upon the same Lord, it is a profound reminder that our shared faith far outweighs our differences. The potential lies in these three key aspects: Spiritual Common Ground Hajj brings focus to the core tenets of Islam: Tawhid, Prophethood, and the Day of Judgment, which all Muslims uphold. In that sacred space, the emphasis returns to submission to Allahnot sectarian identities. Human Interaction and Fraternity Pilgrims from all backgrounds interact closely. If guided properly, this proximity can dismantle stereotypes and build mutual respect. Human warmth often triumphs where polemics fail. A Symbol of Ummah Unity In a time when the Ummah is deeply fragmented, Hajj visually and spiritually demonstrates the unity that is possibleand commanded by Allah. To benefit from this opportunity, we must: Encourage cross-sect pilgrim dialogues and shared educational sessions during Hajj. Discourage inflammatory rhetoric and promote the ethics of ikhtilaf (respectful disagreement). Establish a Pan-Islamic Pilgrimage Charter promoting inclusion, tolerance, and solidarity among all madhahib. Ultimately, the Hajj can serve as a healing groundnot to erase diversity, but to celebrate it under the banner of Tawhid and mutual compassion. If we approach it with humility and sincerity, Hajj can be the bridge that leads to a united Ummah.
New Straits Times
09-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Regional aid lifeline best bet for civil society organisations
US President Donald Trump's approach to foreign aid has prioritised domestic interests, framing it as "America First" economics – that taxpayer dollars should be spent at home rather than abroad. This has shifted focus from traditional humanitarian and development aid to programmes aligned with US foreign policy. In Malaysia, funding cuts to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and World Health Organisation have caused an immediate impact. Civil society organisations (CSOs) were forced to close refugee schools. The closure reflects the faultlines in the international humanitarian funding mechanism. Almost immediately, CSOs had to diversify their funding sources. Malaysia Consultative Council of Islamic Organisation (Mapim) president Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid disclosed that affected CSOs had sought help to connect with potential new sponsors. "Mapim only received one-time funding from UNHCR in 2023 for Rohingya refugee schools," he said and was spared from the recent US funding cuts. Mapim is "luckier" as its funding comes from different sources – including CSOs based in Qatar and Turkiye and grants from embassies and high commissions. International humanitarian organisations once aligned with US policy were most affected by funding freezes, disrupting community-led projects. An anonymous activist in Malaysia said CSOs reliant on the US, especially third-party funders, suffered most. "We're downsizing, cutting staff and scaling back refugee services," she admits. Reductions in funding for global programmes have also undermined efforts to combat diseases, ensure food security, climate change and gender-based violence. A UNHCR-registered Rohingya school principal in Malaysia said three schools have shut down. "The children now stay at home as other refugee schools are too far." Her school is resorting to selling food to keep its doors open. But the crisis could also force local CSOs to innovate and develop their resources and capabilities – a shift towards localised solutions as a short-term measure. A pullback from states opens a gap in the funding system. According to 2023 OECD data, more than 95 per cent of foreign aid still comes from governments. The US remains the single largest donor – 88 per cent of countries receive American assistance – but the trajectory is unmistakable. Washington has stepped back. That decision is not a blip and not just about Trump. It reflects a deeper shift in American priorities – one that will endure, no matter who occupies the White House. Others would do well to adjust accordingly. The geopolitical mood today demands trade-offs. Aid or arms. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's decision to cut Overseas Development Aid (ODA) from 0.5 per cent to 0.3 per cent of gross national income to fund defence is just one example. Unfortunate, perhaps. But it brings clarity – CSOs should now plan, recalibrate and look elsewhere. Asia's wealthier states – China through the Belt and Road Initiative and Japan via ODA – must step up. So, too, Gulf nations with regional ambitions. Some Europeans may step up, but no one should assume the gap will be filled fully. Malaysian CSOs and the region must adapt, as they recall their core mission – to save lives, not chase grants. It is no longer credible to speak of a just international order while the major powers lose interest in sustaining it. National interests are elastic: they stretch or shrink depending on who's in charge. Today, the elastic is snapping back. The age of expansive Western soft power is over – or at least in remission. Local philanthropy must step in. We must confront an uncomfortable truth: Southeast Asia has long relied on the West to fund programmes for the underprivileged. Yes, many local companies contribute through CSR – but the scale and speed of fallout from the withdrawal of USAID and other Western donors exposes the imbalance. It's time for local entrepreneurs and firms to do more. Support rooted in the region resonates more with local needs, is less exposed to shifting geopolitical winds and is more sustainable. And when foreign aid is scaled back or redirected, it is these actors, not Washington, Brussels or Tokyo, who should step into the breach and keep essential services alive.
Barnama
26-04-2025
- Politics
- Barnama
Palestinian Issue: MAPIM Sends Urgent Appeal To Leaders Of China, Russia And India
SHAH ALAM, April 26 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisation (MAPIM) has sent letters to the leaders of three major world powers - China, Russia, and India - last week, seeking their attention and support for the cause of the Palestinian people. Its president Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid said the initiative was part of MAPIM's ongoing efforts to engage global powers in urging the Zionist regime to immediately cease its atrocities against the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza. 'The essence of the letter primarily highlights the increasingly dire situation facing the people of Gaza. MAPIM believes that the Palestinian cause urgently requires the intervention of China, Russia, and India, whose collective influence could exert pressure on Israel and the United States. 'They must play an active role in maintaining continuous pressure, and, at the very least, insist on the immediate opening of the Rafah border to facilitate the delivery of food and medical aid,' he told Bernama here, today. Last week, MAPIM addressed a formal letter to three world leaders - Chinese President Xi Jinping; Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi - appealing for their attention and action on the Palestinian issue. Mohd Azmi further said that MAPIM intends to hold a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the near future to discuss the strategic direction of Malaysia's aid efforts for Palestine. He said that Egypt's efforts to pressure Israel and the United States had shown signs of progress toward reopening the Rafah border crossing, and that this matter will also be brought to the attention of the Prime Minister, with the hope that Malaysia can lend its voice of support. 'To date, 500 MAPIM aid trucks remain stranded at the Rafah border, in addition to 50 containers filled with food, medical supplies, tents, and other essential items which had initially arrived in Egypt,' he said. Earlier, Mohd Azmi attended the Aidilfitri gathering and delivered the keynote speech at the annual general meeting of the Forum Ekonomi Manusiawi (FEM), at the Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Shah Alam Mosque, here.
The Sun
26-04-2025
- Politics
- The Sun
Palestinian issue: MAPIM sends urgent appeal
SHAH ALAM: The Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisation (MAPIM) has sent letters to the leaders of three major world powers - China, Russia, and India - last week, seeking their attention and support for the cause of the Palestinian people. Its president Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid said the initiative was part of MAPIM's ongoing efforts to engage global powers in urging the Zionist regime to immediately cease its atrocities against the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza. 'The essence of the letter primarily highlights the increasingly dire situation facing the people of Gaza. MAPIM believes that the Palestinian cause urgently requires the intervention of China, Russia, and India, whose collective influence could exert pressure on Israel and the United States. 'They must play an active role in maintaining continuous pressure, and, at the very least, insist on the immediate opening of the Rafah border to facilitate the delivery of food and medical aid,' he told Bernama here, today. Last week, MAPIM addressed a formal letter to three world leaders - Chinese President Xi Jinping; Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi - appealing for their attention and action on the Palestinian issue. Mohd Azmi further said that MAPIM intends to hold a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the near future to discuss the strategic direction of Malaysia's aid efforts for Palestine. He said that Egypt's efforts to pressure Israel and the United States had shown signs of progress toward reopening the Rafah border crossing, and that this matter will also be brought to the attention of the Prime Minister, with the hope that Malaysia can lend its voice of support. 'To date, 500 MAPIM aid trucks remain stranded at the Rafah border, in addition to 50 containers filled with food, medical supplies, tents, and other essential items which had initially arrived in Egypt,' he said. Earlier, Mohd Azmi attended the Aidilfitri gathering and delivered the keynote speech at the annual general meeting of the Forum Ekonomi Manusiawi (FEM), at the Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Shah Alam Mosque, here. More than 50 participants attended the forum, which focused on the socio-geopolitical landscape of the country, particularly in light of the ongoing crisis in the cultural and intellectual leadership, among both political leaders and the community.
