Tribute Paid to Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi: A Key Figure in Promoting Islamic Civilisation and Regional Unity
A Loss for Malaysia, the Global Muslim Community, and the World
JAKARTA, April 15 (Bernama) — Former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was a key figure in promoting Islamic civilisation and regional unity, a prominent Indonesian Muslim scholar said.
A Personal Connection with the Late Leader
Paying tribute to Malaysia’s fifth Prime Minister, former Chairman of the Central Leadership of Muhammadiyah, Prof M. Din Syamsuddin, expressed deep sorrow over Abdullah’s passing, describing it as “a loss not only for Malaysia, but also for the global Muslim community and the world at large.”
A Call for Peaceful Resolution
Reflecting on his personal connection with the late leader, Din Syamsuddin recalled a meeting in 2014 when he led a delegation of six senior Indonesian Muslim leaders to meet Abdullah in Putrajaya. The purpose of the visit was to encourage a peaceful resolution to the Ambalat territorial dispute between Indonesia and Malaysia with the spirit of ukhuwah Islamiyah (Islamic brotherhood), he said.
A Vision for Islam Hadhari
He added that Abdullah, affectionately known as “Pak Lah”, responded immediately by saying he would call President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono the next day. Our mission was accomplished in under a minute,” he stated in a statement.
The meeting continued with over an hour of in-depth discussion on Abdullah’s vision of Islam Hadhari, a civilisational approach to Islam that emphasises development, education, and good governance.
A Lasting Impression
Din Syamsuddin, who is also the former Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), said that one of Pak Lah’s insights left a lasting impression on him.
“He (Pak Lah) said Arab Muslims had fulfilled their historical responsibility, as had Persian, North African, and Indian Muslims. It is now the time for Malay Muslims to rise and lead the advancement of Islamic civilisation.”
A Relevant Concept
Din Syamsuddin continued, stating the Islam Hadhari concept remains highly relevant and should inspire greater unity and reform among Muslims in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.
“May Allah SWT bestow upon the late Abdullah Badawi His forgiveness, mercy, and paradise,” he added.
A Legacy Lives On
Abdullah, affectionately known as “Pak Lah”, passed away at the age of 85 at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur at 7.10 pm on Monday.
Conclusion
Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was a true leader who left an indelible mark on the world. His vision for Islam Hadhari continues to inspire and guide us towards a brighter future. May his legacy live on in our hearts and minds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s vision for Islam?
A: His vision for Islam was based on the concept of Islam Hadhari, which emphasizes development, education, and good governance.
Q: What was the purpose of Prof M. Din Syamsuddin’s meeting with Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi?
A: The purpose of the meeting was to encourage a peaceful resolution to the Ambalat territorial dispute between Indonesia and Malaysia with the spirit of ukhuwah Islamiyah (Islamic brotherhood).
Q: What is the significance of the Islam Hadhari concept?
A: The Islam Hadhari concept remains highly relevant and should inspire greater unity and reform among Muslims in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.
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