Hajj, Religious Affairs: Dhaka-Kuala Lumpur agrees to boost ties
Staff Reporter :
Dhaka and Kuala Lumpur have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in religious affairs, with a renewed focus on Hajj management, zakat administration and modernising religious education systems.
The understanding was reached during a virtual bilateral meeting on Tuesday between Bangladesh’s Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad and Malaysia’s Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Religious Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan.
According to an official handout issued on 25 February, the meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere, with both sides engaging in constructive discussions aimed at consolidating cooperation between the two Muslim-majority nations.
In his remarks, Kaikobad underscored the importance of exchanging mutual experiences and best practices, particularly in the development of Hajj management, zakat governance and religious education.
He emphasised enhancing efficiency in organising Hajj operations, ensuring transparency and accountability in zakat distribution, and strengthening the capacity of relevant officials.
Hajj-related issues received particular attention. The two ministers discussed improving service standards, increasing administrative efficiency and expanding the use of technology in Hajj operations.
Positive views were expressed on sharing expertise in pilgrim registration, training, accommodation arrangements and overall supervision.
On zakat management, both sides stressed the need to reinforce institutional frameworks, utilise digital platforms and prepare data-driven beneficiary lists to ensure transparency and accountability.
They also exchanged views on making zakat funds more effective in poverty alleviation efforts.
The meeting further explored ways to align religious education systems with contemporary demands.
Discussions included curriculum development, research collaboration and teacher training initiatives.
Emphasis was placed on technology-integrated education and on promoting the values of tolerance and social harmony.
Proposals were also raised to organise joint training programmes, workshops and exchange initiatives to enhance the professional capacity of officials in the religious affairs sector.
Both ministers expressed optimism that cooperation in religious affairs would expand further in the coming years, grounded in mutual respect and goodwill.
The virtual meeting is being viewed as a positive step in the continued strengthening of friendly ties between Bangladesh and Malaysia, with observers noting that effective implementation of the discussed initiatives could open a new chapter in bilateral engagement.
