Grand Mufti of Egypt Advocates for Youth Empowerment at Kuala Lumpur Summit
Dr. Nazir Muhammad Ayad, the Grand Mufti of Egypt and Secretary-General of the World Council of Fatwas, emphasized the critical importance of empowering youth during his address at the Third International Summit for Religious Leaders in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He stated that youth empowerment is no longer a luxury or an option to be postponed; it has become a necessity dictated by the rapid challenges of modern times.
Speaking under the theme “Religious Leaders and Youth Empowerment,” which was sponsored by Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Anwar bin Ibrahim and organized in collaboration with the Muslim World League, Dr. Ayad highlighted that young people represent a significant demographic within societies and are often the most capable of engaging with scientific, technological, and knowledge advancements. He noted that directing their energies positively is an investment in both present and future societal stability and development.
The Grand Mufti referenced the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to underline the importance of youth in community building. He described this stage as one characterized by strength, contribution, and achievement, citing historical examples such as Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and early Islamic followers who were predominantly young individuals who shouldered the burden of spreading Islam.
Dr. Ayad urged religious leaders to emulate this prophetic approach by assigning impactful roles and responsibilities to young people while providing serious programs for training, guidance, and evaluation. He stressed the need for ethical training amidst global declines in values and rising materialistic tendencies.
The Grand Mufti also called for sustainable programs to instill religious and moral values in youth, shielding them from ideological deviations while enhancing their awareness of contemporary global issues such as climate change, poverty rates, hatred, discrimination, racism, and inequality.
He highlighted the importance of incorporating youth perspectives into innovative solutions that address these challenges and promote sustainable development. Dr. Ayad asserted that religious discourse should guide youth towards productive endeavors while encouraging them to leverage digital platforms to improve their living conditions.
Furthermore, he advocated for involving youth in various local and international intellectual initiatives led or supported by religious institutions. This includes fostering values of moderation, tolerance, coexistence, creativity, and overcoming obstacles that hinder their aspirations.
Dr. Ayad concluded his speech with a prayer for guidance towards good deeds that build aware generations capable of bearing future responsibilities. He urged all stakeholders to counteract negative narratives undermining national stability and societal cohesion.
This participation at the summit underscores the active role played by Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta and its commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue, supporting international efforts toward coexistence values, addressing contemporary intellectual issues related to empowering youth for constructive societal roles amidst global challenges.
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