Kuala lumpur: The Global Islamic Finance Leadership Award 2025 has been awarded to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, highlighting Malaysia's significant position as a leader in the Islamic finance sector. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar noted that the award also acknowledges the Prime Minister's leadership qualities, characterized by justice, transparency, sustainable development, and social responsibility.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Mohd Na'im emphasized the Prime Minister's career as a testament to dedication, perseverance, and visionary leadership. Anwar's commitment to justice, socio-economic development, education, and community empowerment has made an impact not only in Malaysia but also across the Islamic world and on the international stage. Dr Mohd Na'im expressed pride in the Prime Minister's efforts to make Islamic finance a catalyst for positive change, fostering global cooperation and well-being.
Dr Mohd Na'im further commented on the Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA), which, over the past 15 years, have emerged as the second-largest recognition body after the Nobel Peace Prize Committee in honoring global leadership. To date, 14 heads of state and government have been recognized, including the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, in 2012. He expressed hope that this recognition would inspire Malaysians to work collaboratively in making Malaysia a MADANI nation on the world stage.
Meanwhile, Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), also offered her congratulations in a Facebook post. She stated that the recognition not only bolsters the Prime Minister's leadership but also reinforces Malaysia's global standing as a leader in Islamic finance.
Anwar, who also serves as the Finance Minister, received the award in acknowledgment of his influential role in advancing Islamic finance. Established in 2011 by Edbiz Corporation, GIFA celebrates individuals, institutions, and governments for their achievements in promoting Islamic banking and finance, while maintaining a commitment to social responsibility.