Anwar Ibrahim calls for humility and respect for religious scholars

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for the importance of humility in the pursuit of knowledge and the necessity of respecting religious scholars (ulama). Speaking at the Sebarkan Salam and Pendang Berselawat program at Pondok Mujamma’ Ibnu Sunni Al-Talaqqi in Pendang, Kedah, Anwar emphasized that regardless of one's position or status, individuals must remain humble before knowledge.

He noted that religious teachers (tuan guru) possess deep understanding not only of classical texts and Islamic heritage but also of the real-world anxieties and challenges faced by society at the grassroots level. Anwar highlighted the historical role of pondok and pesantren institutions in preserving faith and identity during colonial eras.

To ensure progress is guided by faith, morality, and social responsibility, the Prime Minister advocated for elevating the status of pondok education and connecting the younger generation to Islamic knowledge. He added that while Islam demands firmness in upholding justice and trust, such firmness must be accompanied by compassion to foster honesty and empathy in society.