UNIW Official Visit to Malaysia

The Union of NGOs of the Islamic World (UNIW) conducted an official regional visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, between April 30 and May 4, 2019. The first meeting of the visit was held at the Prime Minister's Office with the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. The delegation presented an overview of UNIW's activities and shared progress on upcoming initiatives, particularly the International Civil Society Academy (USTA). Expressing his gratitude for the visit and appreciation for UNIW's work, the Prime Minister emphasized that a revival in the Muslim world is rooted in returning to Quranic values and deeply understanding its divine message.

The second stop of the visit was a home meeting with Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Leader of the People's Justice Party (PKR) and coalition leader. Consultations were held on UNIW's flagship projects, including USTA and the upcoming International Family Conference. The delegation highlighted his role as a prominent thought leader in the Islamic world and extended an official invitation to the upcoming African NGO Conference.

The UNIW delegation also met with Turkey's Ambassador to Kuala Lumpur, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Merve Safa Kavakcı, congratulating her on her appointment and discussing comprehensive civil society collaborations in Southeast Asia. Ambassador Kavakcı affirmed full readiness to support UNIW's initiatives in the region.

UNIW at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM): The delegation met with Dean Prof. Dr. Shukran of the Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences, presenting UNIW's academic and family projects. Meetings were also held with Deputy Rector Prof. Dr. Nor Faridah Abdul Manaf and International Office Director Prof. Dr. Dawood A. Al Hidabi to explore partnerships in negotiation training, youth capacity building, and advocacy.

UNIW at WADAH Foundation: A coordination meeting took place at the headquarters of WADAH Movement. UNIW Deputy Secretary General and WADAH President Ahmed Azzam was congratulated on his election as Chair of the OIC Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC). Representatives of partner NGOs including GPM, FGN, and ABIM participated in the discussions.

'Women's Safety and Global Challenges' Conference: The delegation attended the conference organized by Malaysian partner NGOs. Deputy Prime Minister Dato' Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail served as guest of honor. UNIW Secretary General Atty. Ali Kurt delivered a welcoming address, alongside keynote presentations by Ambassador Dr. Merve Safa Kavakcı and distinguished Malaysian scholars.

ABIM Strategic Roundtable: The visit concluded with a roundtable at ABIM headquarters on 'Global Developments and the State of the Ummah', bringing together regional NGO leaders, advisors, and government officials for mutual consultations.