BEIJING, Dec.8 (Xinhuanet) -- Malaysian Prime Minister yesterday introduced the concept of Islam Hadhari as a solution to the problems facing Muslims worldwide.

    Speaking as head of the nation chairing the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), Malaysia Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah said Islam Hadhari was a working model of renewal, reform and revivalism for the Muslim world.

    Abdullah said Islam Hadhari, or what he called "civilizational Islam", was aimed at enhancing the quality of life through the mastery of knowledge and the development of individuals and the nation.

    "It is not a new religion or mazhab. It is not a new ideology. It is a guide for our development," Abdullah said in an address at the opening of the Third Extraordinary Session of the Islamic Summit Conference at the Al-Safa Palace.

    The offer to OIC leaders to consider Islam Hadhari as a model for growth is timely as the grouping of 57 Muslim nations considers reforms for OIC to play a more effective role on the world stage.

    The meeting also hopes to help Muslims regain their self-confidence.

    Abdullah said his concept is not intended to pacify the West, nor as an approach to apologise for the perceived "Islamic threat". It was also not aimed at seeking approval from non-Muslims for a more friendly and gentle image of Islam.

    "It is intended as a integrated and balanced development that creates a knowledgeable and pious people who hold noble values. People who are honest, trustworthy and prepared to take on global issues," he said. Enditem

    (Agencies)