Having a host of titles does not endear a person to God, PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim said today.

 
Speaking at a Christmas luncheon at the Holy Family Church in Kajang today, Anwar said that even the "greatest kings" cannot endear themselves to God.
 
"There might be a man of poor wealth, but to God, he is more holy," Anwar said.
 
On Thursday, the Selangor palace announced that Anwar was stripped off his Selangor datuk seri title by Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah over his actions during the protracted menteri besar crisis.

Anwar also said that he felt "embarrassed" that Pope Francis and international Christian leaders remember Malaysia due to the recent "Allah" controversy and the Bible seizures.

"The Pope told me - Anwar, I know about you. Thank you for speaking up and championing the cause of justice," he said, referring to his recent meeting with the Pope.

"But, I felt a little embarrassed. That is what we are known for," he added.

He said that despite the major issues like corruption plaguing the country, the biggest issues gaining attention is whether Muslims can touch dogs.

“It is a major embarrassment for me as a Malay and a Muslim.”

He, however, asked the crowd not to despair at these actions of those with "small minds".

"Do not despair, because that is what religion and faith is all about. We must not despair, we must have the courage to do what is right, and what is good.

"Do not allow the expression of a few to dictate the future of this country," he said.

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