MP warns against appointing Egyptian cleric as PM adviser

A Malaysian parliamentarian has raised concerns about a potential appointment to the Prime Minister's advisory circle, questioning the suitability of a prominent Egyptian Islamic scholar. Saifuddin Abdullah, in his capacity as an MP, warned against bringing the cleric into Anwar Ibrahim's inner circle, pointing to a troubling record of political positions.

The scholar in question reportedly backed the 2013 military coup in Egypt that deposed democratically elected President Mohamed Morsi. According to Saifuddin, the cleric has also sought to provide religious and moral justification for the killing of protesters during that period of political upheaval.

Saifuddin's comments reflect broader sensitivities in Malaysia regarding the appointment of foreign advisers and the need for scrutiny of their historical records and positions. The warning underscores concerns about how Malaysia positions itself internationally, particularly regarding figures associated with controversial political events in the Middle East.

The intervention comes as Malaysia continues to refine its diplomatic relationships and advisory structures under Anwar's administration. Such concerns raised by parliamentary members typically trigger internal government review processes before high-profile appointments are finalised.