Published: Tuesday October 25, 2011 MYT 3:00:00 PM

Najib to push global movement of moderates initiative at CHOGM

BY MAZWIN NIK ANIS

PERTH: After pushing for a “global movement of moderates” at the United Nations and the Langkawi International Dialogue, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak will continue Malaysia's quest at the Commonwealth Heads of Governments Meeting here.

The Prime Minister will raise the matter and other issues when he joins leaders from 52 other Commonwealth nations at the CHOGM retreat on Saturday.

Malaysian High Commissioner to Australia Datuk Salman Ahmad said getting more people including Commonwealth leaders - to understand the movement will bring moderates forward to help counter negative perceptions of Islam and allay fears about the faith.

He said other issues expected to be raised would be on development, trade and economy.

Najib unveiled Malaysia's idea of a global movement of moderates in his speech at the UN general assembly in New York in September last year.

He brought up the matter with African leaders at the Langkawi International Dialogue in Putrajaya in June.

Meanwhile, said Salman, the Prime Minister will deliver a keynote address entitled "Building Infrastructure for the 21st Century" at the Commonwealth Business Forum.

Najib is also scheduled to chair a roundtable meeting with business leaders to discuss opportunities and prospects of trade and investment in Malaysia.

Salman added several bilateral meetings have also been arranged. They include meetings with Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, Sri Lankan President Mahindra Rajapaksa, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Razak Gillani and Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.

Najib is also expected to meet British Prime Minister David Cameron as well as students and Malaysians residing in Perth at a barbecue session before leaving for home.

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