On Monday, 18 December 2023, Ambassador Azhar paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Aneeq Ahmed, Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony of Pakistan at his office, Pakistan Secretariat, Islamabad. Ambassador Azhar was accompanied by Mr. Syafik, Counsellor of the High Commission.
During the courtesy call, both sides discussed matters related to religious affairs in Malaysia and Pakistan. The Minister cited that Malaysia was one of the role models of Muslim countries that Pakistan could emulate. Ambassador Azhar took the opportunity to brief the Minister pertaining to the current Malaysian Government and its administration. Ambassador Azhar highlighted that the Prime Minister, the Honourable Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim has introduced the Malaysia Madani concept. The word Madani is an acronym made up of six core values, namely sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust and compassion. The Malaysia Madani conceptualised by the current administration was about reforming Malaysia into a country that believes in humanity and good values such as fair, just and effective governance.
The Minister inquired about hajj and umrah management in Malaysia. Ambassador Azhar briefly explained that Lembaga Tabung Haji (LTH) was entrusted with providing the most comprehensive and systematic facilities for the welfare of Malaysian hajj pilgrims. LTH also carries out investment activities to increase the value of depositors’ savings with LTH. Ambassador Azhar added that LTH has over 9 million depositors. It also operates an office in Jeddah under the purview of the Malaysian Consulate. Ambassador Azhar mentioned that he would share the detailed information on LTH with the Minister's office in due course.
Before taking leave, Ambassador Azhar invited the Minister to visit Malaysia and experience more about its culture and people. Both sides welcomed and placed a high hope for stronger cooperation between the two countries. The courtesy call was held and ended in a cordial and warm atmosphere.
