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RIO DE JANEIRO: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim began his visit to Brazil on Sunday with a casual discussion with the Muslim community here.
He also reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to supporting halal-related matters, besides efforts to uplift the status of Islam through education and dakwah (teachings) to the Muslim community in Brazil.
“In the meeting, we were able to discuss and exchange views on the development of the ummah in this country,” he told reporters after the meeting at the only mosque here, Masjid El Nur (Mesquita da Luz).
The mosque was represented by its president, Mohamed Zeinhom Mohamed El Fateh Mohamed Abdien; its imam, Sancho Jorge Mulungo @ Adam; the deputy director of the social department, Julia Leal Menezes; and its financial director, Abdullah Al Masri.
Also present at the meeting was foreign minister Mohamad Hasan.
Anwar presented the mosque with a specially printed copy of the Quran and 10 additional copies translated into Portuguese.
He said Malaysia will also mobilise efforts to support activities at the mosque.
Anwar arrived here on Saturday after attending the Apec Economic Leaders Week in Lima, Peru, for his first official visit to Brazil.
He is here at the invitation of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.