Malaysia's PAS Demands Transparency Over Zakir Naik Extradition Talks

The Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) is demanding transparency from the Malaysian government following reports that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim discussed the extradition of preacher Zakir Naik with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the BRICS summit in New Delhi.

Zakir Naik, a Malaysian permanent resident since 2012, is wanted by India's National Investigation Agency for hate speech and a 2016 money laundering case. While the Government of India confirmed the issue has been raised at multiple levels, PAS Secretary-General Takiyuddin Hassan warned that Naik must not become a diplomatic concession to strengthen bilateral ties. Hassan insisted that legal processes must override political bargaining.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that any action regarding the preacher must be taken cautiously and in accordance with the rule of law. He noted that certain discussions were kept private to protect national interests but acknowledged the matter is a priority for building trust between the two nations. Meanwhile, Naik's lawyer, Akberdin Abdul Kader, dismissed the reports of extradition commitments as speculative.

Despite the diplomatic tension over Naik, the two leaders used the summit to expand a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Public statements focused on cooperation in semiconductors, critical minerals, clean energy, defense, and talent mobility.