Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, hinted on Tuesday that his government might consider India’s request to extradite controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik if India provides sufficient evidence against him. During a session at the Indian Council of World Affairs, Ibrahim mentioned that this issue should not hinder the expansion of bilateral relations between the two countries. He also noted that the Indian side did not bring up this issue during their talks on Tuesday.
Zakir Naik is wanted in India for alleged money laundering and for inciting extremism through his hate speeches. He left India in 2016 and was granted permanent residency in Malaysia by the previous government led by Mahathir Mohamad.
Prime Minister Ibrahim said, “Firstly, this issue was not raised by the Indian side. Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised it a few years ago… But the point is, I am not talking about one person. I am talking about the spirit of fighting extremism. I am talking about a compelling case and evidence that proves serious crimes committed by a person, group, or party.”
He added that his government is “ready to consider any request and evidence presented.” He also stated, “We do not promote terrorism… our stance on this is clear, and we are working with India on many of these issues. But I don’t think this one case should create obstacles in our future cooperation and bilateral relations.”