Malaysian Ambassador Says Zakir Naik Will Be Extradited To India, But Only After…

The High Commissioner’s statement signifies a new chapter in the evolving India-Malaysia relationship. (News18 Hindi)

Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to cooperating with India on the extradition of Zakir Naik, a fugitive preacher facing serious charges in India. Malaysia’s High Commissioner to India, Dato’ Muzafar Shah Mustapha, indicated that Malaysia will fully adhere to the extradition treaty between the two nations, but stressed that the process will follow legal and judicial procedures.

His statement comes ahead of the ASEAN Summit scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur later this month, where leaders from India and Malaysia will address various issues.

Zakir Naik, known for his anti-India rhetoric, faces serious accusations of money laundering, inciting youth to extremism, and spreading hatred. After leaving India in 2016, Naik was granted permanent residency in Malaysia. India has been seeking his extradition since 2018, but the case remains pending in Malaysian courts.

High Commissioner Muzafar Shah said, “We have a bilateral extradition treaty with India, and it is important to follow due process. Zakir Naik’s case is ongoing in a Malaysian court, and the decision will be based on judicial consideration.”

We’ll Accept India’s Reasons, Says High Commissioner

The Malaysian Ambassador said the case will proceed based on the evidence or reasons provided by the Indian government, adding that Malaysia has no direct role in the matter.

This statement follows Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to India in August 2024, during which he stated that extradition would be considered if India provided concrete evidence. The High Commissioner’s latest remarks send positive signals in that direction, highlighting ongoing cooperation within the framework of the law.

Zakir Naik’s case has been a longstanding issue in India-Malaysia relations. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge sheet against Naik in 2017, alleging that his speeches inspired the 2016 Bangladesh attacks. The NIA has accused Naik of inciting extremism, spreading communal hatred, and money laundering. Despite India’s request for a Red Corner Notice from Interpol, it was rejected three times due to insufficient evidence.

Malaysia Granted Asylum

Though Malaysia granted Zakir Naik asylum, it did not entirely ignore India’s request. In 2019, then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad asserted Malaysia’s right to refuse extradition, but Anwar Ibrahim’s government has since shown willingness to cooperate. In August 2024, he said, “If India provides evidence, we won’t hesitate.” The High Commissioner reiterated that cooperation will be extended, but strictly within the framework of law.

India has prioritised Naik’s extradition, with Foreign Ministry officials confirming that the process is underway under the Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT). The NIA and Directorate of Enforcement (ED) have sent multiple documents to Malaysia, including a non-bailable warrant from a Mumbai court in 2019. Interpol assistance was sought, but Malaysia maintained that the matter is sub judice.

India-Malaysia Ties Reach New Heights

High Commissioner Muzaffar Shah praised the strengthened India-Malaysia relationship, noting that the recent prime ministerial visit elevated bilateral ties to new heights. Both countries are moving towards a comprehensive strategic partnership, with increasing trade, security cooperation, and people-to-people contacts. Bilateral trade is projected to exceed $15 billion, and this issue may be discussed between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anwar Ibrahim at the ASEAN Summit.

Zakir Naik remains active in Malaysia, organising religious gatherings and connecting with millions of followers on social media. While he enjoys popularity among certain communities, his presence continues to stir controversy. In India, his speeches are considered hate speech, with the NIA claiming that Naik’s “personality cult” has misled many young people.

Why The High Commissioner’s Statement Matters

Experts view Malaysia’s stance as a positive step. Former diplomat N.K. Singh commented, “The mention of legal process is a good sign. India should present strong evidence.” However, critics argue that Malaysia will not yield to political pressure, especially as Naik is linked to minority rights in the Muslim-majority country. This has sparked debate on social media. One post stated, “Malaysia will cooperate under the treaty, but the legal process must be followed.”

What Did Jaishankar Say?

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar recently informed Parliament that there will be no rush to extradition, acknowledging that similar cases are ongoing with several countries. Zakir Naik’s case is significant, and Malaysia’s cooperation would mark a major diplomatic and legal victory for India.

The High Commissioner’s statement signifies a new chapter in the evolving India-Malaysia relationship, with both countries expanding cooperation in Southeast Asia. However, the resolution of Zakir Naik’s case remains dependent on the Malaysian court’s decision. The High Commissioner concluded, “Our relations are strong. This issue will not affect them.”