Malaysia calls on Muslims to unite against extremism

Malaysia has called on Muslims around the world to unite against extremists, who are using religion as an excuse to spread violence.

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak made the remarks at the General Debate of the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City on Saturday.

“Around the world, extremism is taking lives and crushing opportunities. This affects us all but it is one people, of one faith, who suffer most… I believe the greatest threat to Muslims today comes not from the outside world, but from within,” Razak said.

The Malaysian premier also said that Islam, which is “founded on peace and premised on tolerance,” is “being twisted by extremists, who are deploying false arguments to foster division and justify violence.”

“Across the Islamic world, extremists are wrapping their perverse agenda in religious cloth; tearing families, countries and the ummah apart,” he said, adding, “I believe moderation in religion and the political process can stem the loss of life and liberty in the Muslim world. Behind the tragic violence, there is a battle being waged for the future of Islam.”