Not worried by Anwar’s India discussions about me, says Zakir Naik

Malaysian preacher Dr Zakir Naik has expressed no concern over discussions Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has had with Indian officials regarding his extradition. Naik, who faces allegations of money laundering and inciting extremism through hate speech in India, spoke through his lawyer Akberdin Abdul Kader. According to Akberdin, Anwar’s discussions did not involve any commitments, including those concerning Naik's extradition.

Akberdin also dismissed the Indian media's reports as an attempt to fabricate stories out of thin air, claiming these reports have been made previously, such as when it was claimed Naik was dying of AIDS. New Delhi Television quoted Anwar, who was in India for the BRICS summit, stating that private talks about Naik had taken place in New Delhi.

Anwar reportedly emphasized that any potential extradition must be done "very cautiously" and in accordance with the rule of law. In 2024, Anwar had previously stated that he would not consider extraditing Naik to India as long as the preacher refrained from causing trouble. Naik, who has been wanted by Indian authorities since 2016, has reportedly been inactive and has not made any statements against either India or Malaysia.

If India provides additional evidence, Malaysia might consider Naik's extradition request, according to Akberdin.