An inspiring gift’: UAE to fund mosque and learning centre in Malaysia

News of the project came as Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, met the Malaysian prime minister, Najib Razak, who is on a three-day visit to the UAE.

The UAE is to develop a mosque complex in Malaysia inspired by the design and values of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Courtesy Government of Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI // The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a reflection of the UAE’s cultural and national values, which stress respect, tolerance and co-existence.

And now the UAE is to develop a mosque complex in Malaysia inspired by its design and values.

News of the project came as Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, met the Malaysian prime minister, Najib Razak, who is on a three-day visit to the country.

The project in Bandar Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, will include a high-tech Islamic learning centre and a “Permata” facility for talented children. Permata, which means jewel or gem in Malay, will represent the young as valued assets of the country.

The design and construction of the project is being funded by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf).

Mr Najib welcomed the news, saying: “This is an inspiring gift, as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque promotes the concept of tolerance, love and mutual understanding.”

Dr Hamdan Al Mazrouei, the chairman of Awqaf, said the complex in Malaysia will promote cultural understanding.

“This partnership underscores our mission to promote tolerance and awareness of the moderate teachings of Islam, through the development of mosques and education centres. It is our intention to create a centre that serves the needs of the community.”