Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today called on Muslims to prevent militant groups from hijacking the name of Islam to advance their violent ideology.

"The image of Islam in the eyes of the international community has been blackened since Sept 11," said Abdullah, who chairs the world's biggest grouping of Islamic nations, the Organisation of the Islamic Conference.

"We realise that Islam and its teachings can be used by certain groups, not only in Malaysia but also overseas, to advance their narrow agenda," he said in a speech to his ruling party's national assembly.

"What we regret most is that every time, their actions bring destruction, pain and instability to human beings everywhere, including to Muslims who are innocent," he said.

Islam is a major topic at this week's annual talks of Umno, which promotes a moderate Islam Hadhari that emphasises economic and scientific development.

"We are responsible for ensuring that the culture of extremism and violent acts in the name of Islam does not happen in Malaysia," Abdullah said.

"We are responsible for protecting Malays and the Islamic faith from becoming a means for individuals who want to advance in their narrow agenda."

Examplary state

Abdullah urged the international community to address the root causes of the troubles, including the situations in Iraq and Palestine which have inflamed discontent in the Muslim world.

Some 60 percent of Malaysia's population are Muslim Malays, and the government places a priority on ensuring peaceful relations with the country's Indian and Chinese minorities.

"I have the responsibility to demonstrate to the world that Malaysia is an example of a modern Islamic country, dynamic, and a trusted business partner and a safe place to invest and visit," the prime minister said.