“The relationship between the ethnic Chinese and Islamic worlds dates back more than 1,300 years,” Ma said. “Although Muslims are a minority group in Taiwan, the government is working tirelessly to safeguard their rights.”
The president made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the 16th General Assembly of the Regional Islamic Dawah Council of Southeast Asia and the Pacific (RISEAP) in Taipei City.
Held for the first time in Taiwan, the annual gathering was attended by more than 80 religious leaders and scholars from 23 countries and territories in the region. These included RISEAP President Abdul Taib Mahmud and Deputy President Ridzuan Wu.
According to Ma, migrant laborers from Indonesia and other countries have increased the number of Muslims in Taiwan from 50,000 to roughly 250,000 in recent years. “This group contributes to Taiwan’s cultural diversity and offers a special opportunity for locals to better understand the Islamic faith,” he said.
Since taking office in May 2008, Ma has received the ROC hajj delegation every year. In April, he met with Muslim World League Secretary-General Abdullah bin Abdul Mohsin Al-Turki during an MWL-sponsored symposium in Taipei.
Citing the latest Global Muslim Travel Index compiled by MasterCard Inc. and Crescent Rating, Ma said Taiwan is rated the 10th-best destination for Muslim travelers outside the Organization of Islamic Cooperation member states, a strong vote of confidence in government efforts creating a Muslim-friendly environment.
“In keeping with the ROC Constitution, the government will continue striving to ensure religious equality and fostering an accommodating environment for Muslims in Taiwan.” (SFC-JSM)
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