Kuala Lumpur:Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of maintaining innovation, inclusivity, and global competitiveness in Islamic finance during a period of global economic uncertainty.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar, who also serves as the Finance Minister, highlighted the need for Shariah thought leadership that is both traditional and adaptable to contemporary challenges. He addressed the 2026 International Shariah Scholars Roundtable, noting that no single entity can tackle these challenges alone. Strengthening strategic collaboration among scholars, regulators, financial institutions, and academics is crucial.

In his speech, delivered by Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Anwar stated that Malaysia is recognized as a pioneer in the global Islamic finance ecosystem. This recognition is not for prestige but because the world requires a financial system grounded in ethics, justice, and compassion.

He further elaborated on the MADANI framework, which balances economic growth with moral responsibility and aligns profit with noble objectives. Islamic finance, rooted in Shariah principles, provides the model for achieving this balance. Anwar stressed that financial issues today extend beyond technicalities to moral questions about the role of financial systems in serving humanity.

Justice, transparency, and accountability must remain central to economic and financial institutions amidst a complex global environment. Anwar reiterated the necessity of strategic cooperation among stakeholders and urged ongoing efforts to ensure fairness, inclusivity, sustainability, and integrity in the financial system.