Crystal Mosque Calls on WOS-IPSP to Strengthen Dialogue for Peace in Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu (Malaysia), 11 July 2026

Crystal Mosque Calls on WOS-IPSP to Strengthen Dialogue for Peace in Malaysia

At the Crystal Mosque in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, a meeting took place between the Cooperation Counselor of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), an intergovernmental organization, Rev. Marco Baragli, and the President of the mosque, Dr. Fazal b. Ismail. The meeting focused on promoting interreligious dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and strengthening cooperation at the local and international levels.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Dr. Ismail requested that an official photograph be taken inside the mosque, facing the Qibla, the direction of Mecca. The gesture was intended to symbolize the shared commitment to conducting dialogue in a spirit of respect, transparency, and responsibility, placing peace and mutual understanding at the center of future cooperation.

The discussions highlighted the challenges currently affecting interreligious relations in parts of Malaysia. According to Dr. Ismail, initiatives aimed at opening channels of dialogue between different religious communities often encounter significant obstacles, limiting opportunities for constructive engagement. In this context, Father Marco Baragli emphasized the importance of building cooperation around shared humanitarian and social values rather than focusing on theological differences. The discussion explored how common objectives—including education, solidarity, social cohesion, and respect for human dignity—can provide a practical foundation for lasting dialogue.

Within this framework, the President of the Crystal Mosque formally expressed his desire for the WOS-IPSP to facilitate contacts and create opportunities for cooperation among religious, institutional, and civil society representatives in Malaysia, with the objective of encouraging initiatives dedicated to peace and mutual understanding.

The meeting also addressed broader international developments, including the current tensions in the Middle East. During the exchange, Dr. Ismail reflected on the historical coexistence between Jewish and Muslim communities in Persia and expressed concern that contemporary conflicts increasingly overshadow centuries of shared history. Participants underlined that sustainable peace requires continuous dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual recognition, while acknowledging that modern conflicts are often influenced by complex political, strategic, and economic dynamics extending beyond religious considerations.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue promoting dialogue, confidence-building measures, and international cooperation as essential instruments for preventing conflict and strengthening peaceful coexistence among peoples and nations, in line with the mission of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), an intergovernmental organization.

Interfaith Dialogue in Malaysia: A Shared Prayer for Peace at the Kapitan Keling Mosque

GEORGE TOWN (PENANG), Malaysia – 4 July 2026

The World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), an intergovernmental organization, welcomes initiatives that strengthen dialogue among religious communities as an essential contribution to international peace and mutual understanding.

On 4 July, the historic Kapitan Keling Mosque in George Town, Penang, hosted a meaningful meeting dedicated to interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Representing the WOS-IPSP, Father Marco Baragli, Counselor for International Cooperation, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Anna Delli Muti, was warmly received by Mr. Hafiz Tahir, representing the President of the mosque, Mr. Haji Kamurudin Bin Abdullah.

The meeting was marked by an atmosphere of friendship, mutual respect, and sincere openness. During the visit, participants reflected on the importance of prayer as a path toward peace and discussed the shared ethical values found in the Qur'an and the Bible. The dialogue also explored the understanding of God's attributes in both religious traditions, emphasizing the importance of respect while acknowledging theological differences.

At the same time, members of the local community engaged in conversations with Mrs. Anna Delli Muti, creating an opportunity for cultural exchange and strengthening relationships based on mutual trust and understanding.

Malaysia represents a significant example of religious and cultural diversity. In a society where different faiths and ethnic communities coexist, initiatives such as this demonstrate that dialogue, respect, and cooperation remain indispensable instruments for promoting social harmony and preventing polarization.

Following the meeting, Father Marco Baragli contacted Amb. Alfredo Maiolese, Secretary General of the WOS-IPSP and President of the European Muslims League, to share the positive outcome of the visit and discuss future opportunities for strengthening cooperation between religious communities through cultural and diplomatic initiatives.

The WOS-IPSP reaffirms its commitment to supporting dialogue among civilizations and religions as an essential element of preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention, and sustainable peace. Encounters such as the one held in George Town demonstrate that mutual respect and sincere dialogue continue to build bridges where others see divisions.

Statement by Amb. Alfredo Maiolese, Secretary General of the WOS-IPSP

"Every sincere encounter between believers who choose dialogue over prejudice represents an investment in peace. Respecting one another's identity while working together for the common good is one of the strongest foundations for international cooperation. The experience in George Town reminds us that diplomacy also grows through personal relationships, mutual listening, and the shared commitment to human dignity."