The Ambassador of Malaysia, Datuk Ibrahim Abdullah met with the Christian-Democratic Party’s leader, Jean-Frederic Poisson this morning to discuss on how France and Malaysia could play a role in creating greater awareness on Islam in the French Republic. The meeting provided an excellent opportunity for both to share their thoughts and ideas on the subject. Mr. Poisson was very interested to know about Malaysia and how the practice of Islam is propagated in Asia. The exchange of views definitely led to a better understanding between the differences and perceptions of Islam that is being practised in the Arab world and in Asia.
The discussions also explored the root causes of the negativity that Islam conjures in the minds of the people in the West which can be attributed to the focus of the media that tend to narrow in on violence and atrocities perpetrated by a minority of Muslims. There is not enough coverage on the positive aspects of the religion by the mainstream media in a fair and balanced manner. For the Muslims, the main sore point is the long standing struggle of the Palestinian people which has lasted for over a half century and sees no end. Resolving this conflict will undoubtedly provide a significant contributing factor towards achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.
The Meeting was held in an open and frank manner where both the Ambassador and Mr. Poisson looked forward to continuing these type of engagements for mutual benefit and understanding. There was also proposal to have future collaboration that could benefit both Malaysia and France.
Ambassador Datuk Ibrahim Abdullah (L), Mr. Jean-Frederic Poisson (M) and Mr. Nader Allouche (R)
Intense discussion on Islam and how both Malaysia and France can work together to create better awareness of the religion in the French Republic