Renowned Islamic preacher Dr. Zakir Naik has revealed that fears of being labeled by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) compelled him to migrate to Malaysia. In a recent interview, Dr. Naik expressed his concerns about the potential consequences of remaining in Pakistan under such circumstances.
“There is a principle in Shariah that a small loss should be tolerated to avoid a big loss,” Dr. Naik stated. “I felt that the potential risks to my safety and freedom outweighed the benefits of staying in Pakistan.”
Dr. Naik, who is known for his popular lectures and debates on Islam, has been a controversial figure in some circles. His teachings have drawn both praise and criticism, with some accusing him of promoting extremism and intolerance.
The ISI, Pakistan’s powerful military intelligence agency, has been involved in numerous domestic and foreign operations. While the specific nature of the “label” Dr. Naik referred to remains unclear, it suggests that he believed his activities or views could have led to negative consequences from the agency.
Dr. Naik’s migration to Malaysia has sparked discussions about the freedom of expression and religious tolerance in Pakistan. Some have expressed concerns about the potential for government interference in religious matters, while others have defended the government’s actions as necessary to maintain national security.