Omanghana
More than 2,500 religious leaders, scholars, policymakers, and youth representatives from 49 countries gathered at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) for the Third International Summit of Religious Leaders, where discussions focused on the role of faith in empowering young people and promoting global peace in an increasingly digital world.
Jointly organized by the Muslim World League (MWL) and Malaysia’s Prime Minister’s Office, the summit was held under the theme “Religious Leaders and Youth Empowerment.”
The event was officiated by several prominent leaders, including the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and MWL Secretary-General Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa.
Youth Recognized as Partners in Building Peace
A central message throughout the summit was that young people should be viewed as active partners in shaping peaceful and inclusive societies rather than simply recipients of religious guidance.
Speakers emphasized that empowering youth to take leadership roles in community development, interfaith dialogue, and social cohesion is essential for addressing the complex global challenges of the future.
Participants agreed that investing in young people’s leadership skills and encouraging meaningful participation in decision-making can strengthen cooperation across religious and cultural boundaries.
Promoting Preventive Peace
Addressing delegates, Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa urged religious leaders to embrace what he described as “preventive peace”—an approach focused on preventing conflict before it emerges rather than responding after violence and division have already taken hold.
He stressed the need for faith leaders to work collectively to confront racism, religious intolerance, hate speech, and social polarization through education, dialogue, and mutual understanding.
According to summit participants, early engagement and sustained cooperation among religious communities remain key to building more resilient and harmonious societies.
Faith and Mental Well-Being
The summit also highlighted the challenges facing young people in an era marked by rapid social change.
Panelists noted that many young people are navigating questions surrounding identity while also dealing with increasing concerns related to emotional well-being and mental health.
Religious values and interfaith engagement were presented as important sources of purpose, resilience, and guidance that can help young people cope with uncertainty and build stronger communities.
Addressing the Ethical Challenges of Artificial Intelligence
A major focus of the discussions centered on the growing influence of artificial intelligence and digital technologies on younger generations.
Delegates expressed concern about the spread of misinformation, algorithmic bias, and harmful online content, warning that technological advances without strong ethical foundations could deepen discrimination, social division, and intolerance.
Speakers argued that while digital literacy and technological skills are increasingly important, they should be complemented by moral education and ethical values that help young people make responsible decisions in the digital age.
Participants also warned that extremist groups and politically motivated actors continue to exploit online platforms to spread sectarian narratives, hatred, and Islamophobia, particularly among younger audiences. They emphasized that education, cross-cultural understanding, and interfaith dialogue remain among the most effective tools for countering online extremism.
International Diplomacy Award Launched
To ensure the summit’s objectives continue beyond the conference, organizers announced the creation of the International Diplomacy Award.
The new initiative, inspired by the partnership between the Muslim World League and Malaysia’s Malaysia Madani national development vision, will recognize individuals and institutions that make outstanding contributions to promoting peace, moderation, human unity, and interfaith cooperation around the world.
Organizers expressed hope that the award will encourage greater international collaboration and inspire future generations of leaders to advance dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence across diverse cultures and faith communities.
The summit concluded with a renewed commitment from religious leaders to work alongside young people in addressing global challenges, fostering inclusive societies, and ensuring that technological progress is guided by ethical principles and shared human values.
Source: Omanghana
