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OUTSPOKEN Perlis Mufti Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin — better known as Dr Maza — has strongly criticised the “overly jubilant” reception afforded to US President Donald Trump upon his arrival in Malaysia today for the 47th ASEAN Summit.
While Dr Maza said he raised no objection to welcoming President Trump in his capacity as a visiting head of state, he argued that the celebratory atmosphere — including dances and pomp — was ill-suited to the serious backdrop of allegations arising from the conflict in Gaza, where Israel’s conduct has been declared “genocide” by a UN commission of inquiry.
“I have no issue with greeting Trump as a head of state attending for diplomatic and administrative purposes — a simple and respectful welcome would suffice,” he said. However, the elaborate celebration with dances and other performances does not represent our disapproval of his past injustices,” Asri said in a Facebook post.
The mufti pointed out that under President Trump’s watch, the United States repeatedly vetoed United Nations Security Council resolutions calling for a ceasefire in Gaza — in effect blocking efforts to halt a war that has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinians dead, the mass displacement and widespread accusations of war crimes including crimes against humanity.
Dr Maza lamented that the Malaysian welcome — marked by public dancing and flag-waving alongside President Trump — appeared to ignore the gravity of these humanitarian issues.
“He arrives dancing joyfully, greeted by Malaysian youths as though nothing had happened.
“The genocide, the supply of weapons, and the use of veto powers that allowed such crimes to continue seem to have left no impact or awareness among Muslims. It is truly disheartening.
“Imagine if Trump were to visit European nations today — he would likely be met with protests and stern faces, fully aware that he is not welcomed,” he added.
Trump arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 at 9.48 am today aboard Air Force One, greeted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, alongside Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
He then stole the spotlight upon his arrival, spontaneously joining local traditional dancers during the official welcome ceremony.
The businessman turned politician appeared relaxed and smiling as he moved to the rhythm of the performers, eliciting cheers and applause from the crowd.
He also took time to greet members of the public, holding both Malaysian and US flags and waving them as a gesture of friendship between the two nations.
Trump and Anwar were later seen travelling in the presidential limousine, The Beast, to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), ahead of the 47th ASEAN Summit and the 13th ASEAN-US Summit. – October 26, 2025