Egypt, Indonesia seek closer religious cooperation to counter extremism

Egypt’s Grand Mufti Nazir Mohamed Ayyad has called for stronger cooperation between religious institutions in Egypt and Indonesia to address contemporary intellectual and religious challenges and promote moderate Islamic teachings.

Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from Indonesia’s Ulema Council, led by Deputy Chairman General Khalil Nafis Hassanuddin, Ayyad highlighted Egypt’s experience in developing fatwa services, training religious scholars and using artificial intelligence in religious guidance.

He also outlined Dar al-Ifta’s efforts to counter extremism, hatred speech and Islamophobia, highlighting its international cooperation through the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide, which comprises 111 members from 108 countries.

Hassanuddin said the Indonesian council relies on Egyptian fatwas, particularly those concerning Hajj, and expressed interest in expanding cooperation in research, training and digital transformation.