Reflect on Pope Francis' courage - Mat Sabu's rebuke to Arab leaders

Summary

• Amanah president Mohamad Sabu tells Arab leaders awash in petrodollars to reflect on Pope Francis’ unwavering voice during one of the darkest moments.

• He recalls how Pope Francis stood in solidarity with Palestinians.

Amanah president Mohamad Sabu delivered a stinging rebuke to Arab leaders awash in petrodollars, following the death of Pope Francis, whom he hailed as a beacon of moral courage and the conscience of the world.

Highlighting the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, he said: “While Arab leaders indulge in the luxury of petrodollars, choosing to remain silent or, worse, cosying up with those oppressing the Palestinian people, Pope Francis stood firm in solidarity with the victims.

“How wonderful it would be if Arab world leaders could reflect on Pope Francis’s courage – not just being champions on the stage of luxury, but cowards when it comes to justice and humanity,” he added in a Facebook post.

Mohamad, affectionately known as Mat Sabu, lamented the silence of some muftis and scholars, saying it was heartbreaking that as tens of thousands of Palestinians perished, these figures focused more on preserving their power and thrones than offering the moral guidance so desperately needed by the people.

Contrastingly, the Amanah leader said Pope Francis stood out as an unwavering voice during one of the darkest moments of humanity.

“He firmly stated that the atrocities of the Zionist regime in Gaza had the characteristics of genocide – a statement that exposed the hypocrisy of many world leaders who chose silence, and some who even colluded.

“More than just words, Pope Francis inspired the spirit of Catholic followers in Europe and across the world to rise against injustice.

“He proved that opposing the atrocities of the Zionist regime was not merely a political or religious issue, but a humanitarian struggle that transcended borders and beliefs,” he added.

Deepest condolences

Mohamad, who is also the minister of agriculture and food security, said that while Pope Francis’ death is a great loss, his legacy of courage, determination and humanity will continue to shine.

“Serving as a torch for the struggle of all who demand justice. Standing against the atrocities of the Zionist regime is a humanitarian cause, and Pope Francis became a symbol of this struggle.

“Our deepest condolences from Amanah to all Catholics around the world,” he added.

Mohamad also shared photographs of himself signing the Condolence Book at the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist in Kuala Lumpur, where he was joined by the Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, Julian Leow Beng Kim.

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