KUCHING: Malaysia's efforts to uphold and safeguard Islam have been internationally recognised, including by prominent Islam scholars.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said popular Islamic figure Dr Zakir Naik had in a recent interview, praised Malaysia's endeavours to protect Islam.
"He (Zakir) said Malaysia is able to uphold Islam. This is a very big recognition to the country," he told the congregation after performing the Isyak prayers at the Kampung Pinang Jawa Mosque in Tupong, near here.
The country, he added, had also successfully upheld the principles of the Maqasid Syariah (the objectives of syariah), achieving a 76 per cent score in the latest index.
Najib said as Muslims, the people must place Islam on the pedestal and must not forget the blessings given by God.
He also added the people must be thankful for all their blessings.