Minister in the PM's Department Mujahid Yusof Rawa has met with controversial Muslim preacher Dr Zakir Naik

Mujahid Rawa meets Zakir Naik, calls his preaching work 'inspiring'

THE STAR

PETALING JAYA: Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa has met with controversial Muslim preacher Dr Zakir Naik.

The minister-in-charge of Islamic affairs posted a picture of himself with Zakir Naik on Facebook during their meeting earlier on Wednesday (March 13).

Mujahid said, "His experience in dakwah (preaching) throughout the world is an inspiration for us to continue preaching work.

"May Allah strengthen his preaching efforts to guide people to recognise Islam," he said.

Lawyers for Liberty executive director Latheefa Koya was critical of the meeting.

The lawyer and human rights activist said, "Keep it up Mr Minister @mujahidrawa – at this rate you can join back PAS soon!

"How can this divisive and offensive character be an inspiration to (you)?" she added.

Last September, Mujahid said that a combative style of propagating Islam, which puts down other beliefs, as practised by Zakir Naik, was not suitable for Malaysia.

"We don't want a debate that ridicules others. We need a more intellectual and composed method of Islamic propagation without the need to ridicule other religions," said Mujahid.

Zakir Naik, who is wanted in India – his home country – for alleged money-laundering and terrorism, has been living in Malaysia where he has permanent residency.

Last July, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had said that Malaysia would not deport Zakir Naik "as long as he is not creating any problems" here.

Indian media had reported that the preacher would be deported that week, which Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohamad Fuzi Harun later denied.

Zakir Naik, in a video message on his Facebook page called reports about his deportation "fake news" and accused the Indian media of sensationalism.