Anwar Ibrahim, the prime minister of Malaysia, has made hints that if strong evidence offered against controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, his administration may consider India’s request for his extradition. Speaking at the Indian Council of World Affairs, Anwar emphasized that the growing relationship between Malaysia and India should not be overshadowed by this issue.
While the topic wasn’t discussed during his recent talks with Indian officials, Anwar acknowledged that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had raised the issue in the past. Naik, who has been residing in Malaysia since 2016, faces charges in India for alleged money laundering and spreading extremism through hate speeches. Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s firm stance against terrorism and expressed openness to reviewing any credible evidence brought forward by India.
As the international spotlight remains on Zakir Naik, the potential extradition is a critical point in the broader context of India-Malaysia relations, where diplomacy and legal scrutiny must work hand in hand.
