Malaysia Expresses Full Support for Indonesian President’s Speech at D-8 Summit
Kuala Lumpur, December 20 (Bernama) – Malaysia has expressed full support for the speech delivered by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the D-8 Summit in Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday.
Prime Minister’s Reaction
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that Prabowo, who was sworn in as president of the republic on October 20, had articulated the harsh realities surrounding the issue of Palestinian statehood. "President Prabowo has delivered a bitter but vital truth that must be addressed wisely and prudently, particularly concerning the rights of an independent and sovereign Palestine," he said.
Support for Prabowo’s Chairmanship
Anwar also expressed Malaysia’s full support for Prabowo’s chairmanship of the D-8 in 2026. "Thus, Malaysia firmly supports his chairmanship of the D-8 in 2026," he said in a social media post on Friday.
Fostering Closer Cooperation
Anwar stated that he was ready to foster closer cooperation with Indonesia to ensure the D-8 becomes a more dynamic and inclusive organisation. "As neighbouring nations sharing cultural ties, Malaysia will stand together in this historic moment to amplify the voices of the people in developing countries," he added.
About the D-8
Established in Istanbul, Turkiye, on June 15, 1997, the D-8 is an organisation of developing Islamic nations, forming an economic development alliance comprising Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey.
Prabowo’s Speech
Delivering his speech at the opening session of the 11th D-8 Summit in Cairo on Thursday, Prabowo highlighted the reality that Muslim countries are not given due respect. He said, "Muslim countries, with a population of 2 billion people, must strive for close cooperation among themselves, speak with one voice, and avoid being divided." He also expressed his concerns about conflicts among Muslim leaders in Sudan, Libya, and Yemen, saying, "How can we help the Palestinians if we quarrel among ourselves?"
Call for Unity and Cooperation
Prabowo emphasised the need for unity and cooperation, stating, "Indonesia will do its best in whatever way we can, but I call for unity and cooperation." He also highlighted that Muslim countries are not being respected, saying, "Let us, as Muslim countries, realise that we are not being respected. They do not care about our voice… human rights are not for Muslim people."
Conclusion
Malaysia’s expression of support for Prabowo’s speech is a significant step towards strengthening ties between the two countries and promoting the interests of Muslim countries worldwide. As neighbours sharing cultural ties, Malaysia is committed to standing together with Indonesia to amplify the voices of people in developing countries and promote unity and cooperation among Muslim nations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the D-8?
A: The D-8 is an organisation of developing Islamic nations, formed in 1997, comprising Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey.
Q: What is the purpose of the D-8?
A: The D-8 aims to promote economic development and cooperation among its member states.
Q: Who is Prabowo Subianto?
A: Prabowo Subianto is the President of Indonesia, sworn in on October 20, 2022.
Q: What is the significance of Prabowo’s speech at the D-8 Summit?
A: Prabowo’s speech highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation among Muslim countries, and the need for them to stand together to address global challenges.