Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Alsheikh inaugurated the third Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) "Khair Ummah" Conference today in Bangkok, the capital of the Kingdom of Thailand.
The conference, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, is attended by President of the Thai National Assembly Wanmuhamadnoor Matha, along with several ministers, muftis, and heads of Islamic universities, centers, and associations, in addition to religious and cultural leaders in ASEAN member states.
In his speech, the minister emphasized that the conference's message is to strengthen the principles of Islamic unity and adherence to the truth, aiming to achieve Islamic solidarity that upholds the Islamic identity.
He pointed out that scholars of the Islamic nation bear significant responsibility in light of global circumstances and the various intellectual, political, social, and security changes affecting the current reality.
“This situation calls for a real response from scholars and researchers to clarify the right religious stance against sedition and to reinforce the core principles of the Islamic faith,” he said.
Al Alsheikh stressed that the responsibility on scholars and preachers is increasing due to the global calls for intellectual and ideological deviation and decay.
This requires a thoughtful reflection to realign efforts, uphold the Sharia, safeguard the Prophet’s Sunnah, advance Islamic values, and combat extremism.
He reaffirmed that the Kingdom, under its wise leadership, has diligently fulfilled its responsibility towards the Two Holy Mosques and the holy sites.
“Saudi Arabia has committed to serving pilgrims, visitors, and Umrah performers by implementing substantial projects that enhance their experience and facilitate the performance of their rituals. Furthermore, the Kingdom is dedicated to the printing and distribution of the Holy Quran in multiple languages worldwide,” he said.
The Minister of Islamic Affairs concluded by expressing gratitude to the government of the Kingdom of Thailand, the host country, for their cooperation and support in ensuring the success of the conference.
Subsequently, several participants delivered speeches, in which they thanked the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for serving Islam and Muslims, affirming the importance of consolidating the values of tolerance and moderation, combatting violence and extremism, and promoting cooperation among Muslims.
The two-day conference in Bangkok aims to serve humanity, support peace and justice, and enhance communication between Islamic institutions.