Kozhikode: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim tonight received the inaugural Sheikh Abu Bakar Foundation Excellence Award in recognition of his more than five decades of public service and contributions to education, Islamic scholarship, institutional development, international dialogue, and human well-being. The award was presented to Anwar by Grand Mufti of India, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, at the Gathering of Honour for the Prime Minister of Malaysia event at Markazu Saquafathi Sunniya, also known as Jamia Markaz here.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, as part of the presentation, the Prime Minister received a plaque and a manuscript of Sahih Bukhari. The recognition was presented during Anwar's visit to Jamia Markaz, one of India's premier Islamic institutions, as part of his official visit to India aimed at further strengthening Malaysia-India bilateral relations and exploring new areas of cooperation.

In a citation read during the ceremony, the foundation's Rector, Dr. Roshan Nurani, said Anwar had demonstrated perseverance, institutional vision, and a sustained commitment to dialogue, equitable development, education, and human dignity throughout his public life. He stated that Anwar's contribution extended beyond political office, particularly through his efforts to preserve and disseminate the Islamic scholarly tradition.

The ceremony highlighted the profound respect the Sheikh Abu Bakar Foundation holds for Anwar Ibrahim, celebrating his distinguished contributions to public service, education, economic and institutional development, Islamic thought, and international dialogue. Earlier, Anwar held a meeting with Sheikh Abubakr after attending the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

Sheikh Abubakr, serving as the 10th Grand Mufti of India, was honored in Malaysia with the prestigious Hijri awards in recognition of his scholarly contributions and humanitarian work. The Jamia Markaz has also developed academic cooperation with a number of leading universities in Malaysia.