Allegations that the Global Movement of Moderates (GMM) had strayed from its founding principles during Saifuddin Abdullah’s tenure there appears to be unfair. Saifuddin has been a leading voice of moderation and reason despite the increasingly loud voices of extremism around us over the years.

The Centre For A Better Tomorrow, which also promotes moderation, has had the privilege of working closely with GMM and Saifuddin over numerous projects and events. We can vouch that his moderate and inclusiveness views, whether articulated in private or reported in the media, have been well received by Malaysians of different backgrounds.

In fact, he has carved out a name for himself as the face of moderation abroad.

Furthermore, it would be unfair to blame Saifuddin for allegedly ‘straying’ from GMM’s objectives. GMM has a board of trustee made up of eminent personalities to oversee and advise the then-CEO and his team.

Be that as it may, we hope to continue working closely with GMM in the promotion of wasatiyah or moderation - a common thread that runs through major cultures and religions.

CENTRE FOR A BETTER TOMORROW is a think-tank.