By Maybelene Marcelino
The death of Pope Francis has prompted widespread mourning in Malaysia, where he was revered for his commitment to interfaith dialogue and social justice.
International news reported on Monday that Pope Francis, the first pontiff from Latin America, died on Monday at age 88.
He had long battled various health issues, including asthma-like respiratory crises associated with thrombocytopenia.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected pope in March 2013, becoming the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
A steadfast advocate for peace
In a Facebook post, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim described the late pontiff as “a moral voice of compassion, humility and justice,” emphasising his dedication to building bridges across faiths and cultures.
He said Pope Francis’ commitment to interfaith understanding, environmental stewardship and the dignity of the marginalized resonated far beyond the Catholic Church.
“Pope Francis was a steadfast advocate for peace and his efforts to build bridges across faiths and cultures earned the respect of many, including in the Muslim world,” he was quoted by Bernama as saying.
Anwar also highlighted the pope’s “moral clarity” on global suffering, citing his concern for victims of violence everywhere, including in Gaza.
“He reminded the world that we must show the same compassion to all victims of violence, wherever they may be,” the premier said, as quoted by Bernama.
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A voice for migrants and refugees
The prime minister also noted Pope Francis’s advocacy for migrants and refugees, urging the international community to respond to their plight with humanity and conscience.
He said the Pope’s life of service and quiet strength brought to mind the words of the Bard: “His life was gentle, and the elements so mixed in him that Nature might stand up and say to all the world, ‘This was a man.'”
“He will be remembered not only as the first pope from the Global South but as a moral voice of compassion, humility and justice in a turbulent world,” Anwar added.
Anwar personally recalled visiting the Pope during his early days at the Vatican, expressing deep sadness at his passing and extending condolences to the Catholic community in Malaysia.
A synodal shepherd
Meanwhile, the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia expressed profound grief over the loss, calling Pope Francis “a true shepherd who embodied the spirit of synodality.”
“His pastoral leadership illuminated the path of walking together, listening attentively, and celebrating the diverse gifts of the Church.”
“His legacy resonates deeply within our hearts, calling us to build a more compassionate and united world,” it said in a social media post.
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