Malaysian Envoy Pledges Full Cooperation on Zakir Naik Extradition While Highlighting Growing India-Malaysia Partnership

Malaysian envoy to India Dato' Muzafar Shah Mustafa (right) addressed the topic of Zakir Naik's extradition in a recent interview.

In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Malaysian High Commissioner to India, Dato' Muzafar Shah Mustafa praised the strengthening bilateral relations between Malaysia and India, highlighting their recent elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership status.

During the interview, Mustafa discussed the upcoming ASEAN Summit scheduled under Malaysia's Chairmanship later this month, expressing anticipation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attendance at this significant regional event.

When asked about the current state of India-Malaysia relations, Mustafa noted, "There has been steady progress in our relations based on longstanding historical and cultural connections. Our Prime Minister's visit last year marked another milestone in strengthening bilateral ties, reflected in the elevation of our relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership."

Regarding the 47th ASEAN Summit being hosted in Malaysia from October 26, the High Commissioner emphasized its importance, stating that Malaysia has prioritized "inclusivity and sustainability" as the themes for their ASEAN Chairmanship. He indicated the summit would welcome leaders from both ASEAN nations and partner countries to discuss future priorities and collaborative pathways.

Mustafa confirmed that Malaysia has extended an invitation to US President Donald Trump alongside other heads of state. Based on previous conversations between the Malaysian Prime Minister and President Trump, the latter has indicated his intention to attend, though final confirmation remains pending.

On the possibility of a meeting between PM Modi and President Trump during the summit, the envoy expressed Malaysia's willingness to host such high-level discussions on the sidelines of the main event if arranged.

Addressing security concerns, Mustafa anticipated that terrorism would likely be among the agenda items during the ASEAN discussions, as "all issues of concern between ASEAN countries and dialogue partners" would be raised.

Regarding maritime cooperation, the diplomat highlighted Malaysia's focus on bilateral naval ties with India, emphasizing the importance of maintaining rule of law and stability in the South China Sea and Indo-Pacific regions to ensure freedom of navigation.

When questioned about controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who is wanted in India but currently residing in Malaysia, Mustafa explained that while a bilateral extradition treaty exists between the two nations, there is a specific legal process that must be followed. He stated, "Zakir Naik's case is currently undergoing legal proceedings under the supervision of a Malaysian court and will be resolved based on judicial consideration."

He further clarified that based on the justification provided by the Indian government thus far, there has been no basis found for Naik's extradition, emphasizing that this determination comes from Malaysia's independent judiciary rather than its government.

Nevertheless, Mustafa assured, "As part of our obligation based on the extradition agreement, we are going to extend the fullest cooperation, but it should proceed through the proper legal and court processes."

On leveraging geopolitical shifts to enhance economic cooperation, the High Commissioner underscored the importance of close relations between the regional and maritime neighbors. "India is a very important regional player and is potentially becoming a very important global player. Regardless of the geopolitical situation, Malaysia and India must always maintain close and cordial relations, working together on various aspects at both bilateral and regional levels."