Exclusive interview with H.E. Hendy Anak Assan, Malaysia’s Ambassador to the Holy See

Carlo Marino, Director of Eurasiaticanews, on February 14th 2025, made an exclusive interview with His Excellency Hendy Anak Assan.

Malaysia’s appointed ambassador to the Holy See is from Christian-majority Sarawak and he has vowed to work towards interfaith dialogue and the well-being of Malaysians. H.E. graduated in history from the Malaya University (1994) and obtained a diploma in public administration from the National Institute of Public Administration (INTAN) (1997). The Ambassador has an important diplomatic career behind him that has taken him from China to Japan, from Africa to the Vatican.

1. Your Excellency, how do you assess the diplomatic relations between Malaysia and the Holy See? 

• Malaysia and the Holy See share a warm and constructive relationship that has steadily grown over the years, particularly since the formal establishment of diplomatic ties in 2011. However, our engagement with the Holy See predates that, rooted in a shared commitment to peace, social justice, and human dignity. The relationship is built on a foundation of mutual respect and a recognition of each other’s contributions to global issues, particularly in the areas of interreligious dialogue, education, and humanitarian efforts.

• Malaysia values the Holy See’s role as a moral voice in international affairs, particularly in advocating for peace, justice, and the well-being of vulnerable communities. In many ways, our diplomatic engagement is guided by common principles – Malaysia has always championed peaceful coexistence, multiculturalism, and interfaith dialogue, while the Holy See has consistently emphasized the importance of fraternity among peoples, reconciliation, and dialogue as means to address global challenges.

• Our relations is not limited to bilateral diplomacy; it extends into multilateral cooperation. Malaysia and the Holy See often find themselves aligned on global concerns such as conflict resolution, humanitarian assistance, poverty eradication, and climate change. Pope Francis has been a strong advocate for environmental responsibility, as reflected in his encyclical Laudato Si’, which calls for urgent action on climate change and ecological justice. Malaysia, as a nation with a strong commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development, shares this vision.

• Furthermore, education has been an important pillar of our engagement. Catholic institutions have historically played a role in Malaysia’s educational landscape, contributing to the intellectual and moral development of many Malaysians. This shared focus on education as a means of social progress and intercultural understanding presents opportunities for greater collaboration between Malaysia and Vatican-affiliated institutions.

• Another key aspect of our bilateral ties is interreligious dialogue. Malaysia, as a country where Islam is the official religion but where multiple faiths coexist harmoniously, is deeply invested in promoting interfaith understanding. This aligns well with the Holy See’s initiatives in fostering dialogue between different religious traditions. The collaboration between Malaysian institutions and the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue is an area with great potential for further development, and we remain open to strengthening this engagement.

• As we look ahead, there are many opportunities to deepen our relationship. Through continued engagement in interfaith dialogue, educational cooperation, and joint efforts on global humanitarian and social issues, we can strengthen the foundation of our diplomatic relations and contribute meaningfully to global peace and harmony.

2. What were your impression of this year’s papal audience with the Diplomatic Corps?

• The annual papal audience with the Diplomatic Corps is a significant moment in the Vatican’s diplomatic calendar. It is an opportunity for the Holy See to articulate its moral vision for the world and to reflect on the most pressing global challenges. This year’s address by Pope Francis was particularly compelling, as he once again underscored the importance of fraternity, solidarity, peace, and justice and human dignity in international relations.

• One of the key messages that stood out to me was the Pope’s call for renewed commitment to diplomacy as the primary means of resolving conflicts. In a world increasingly affected by geopolitical tensions, armed conflicts, and humanitarian crises, his emphasis on dialogue over confrontation was both timely and necessary. The Pope’s appeal for peace resonates deeply with Malaysia’s foreign policy approach, which prioritizes diplomacy, conflict mediation, and multilateral cooperation.

Another powerful theme in the Pope’s address was his concern for social justice and the well-being of the marginalized. His message on the ethical responsibilities of nations in addressing poverty, migration, and inequality aligns with Malaysia’s own emphasis on inclusive development. The Holy See’s humanitarian mission is well known, and Malaysia shares its commitment to ensuring that economic growth is equitable and that vulnerable communities are not left behind.

• Climate change was another critical issue that Pope Francis highlighted. His call for urgent environmental action serves as a reminder that the ecological crisis is not just a scientific or economic problem but also a moral and ethical challenge. Malaysia, as a country with vast natural resources and rich biodiversity, understands the importance of environmental stewardship. Our commitment to sustainable development and conservation efforts complements the Vatican’s moral leadership in this area, and we see great potential for collaboration in advocating for responsible environmental policies.

• Another important topic that needs to be given significant attention is the subject on artificial intelligence (AI) and information technology. On the topic of AI and information technology, both the Vatican and Malaysia share common ground in advocating for the ethical use of AI. Pope Francis raised concerns about the risks posed by technology, particularly its potential to deepen societal polarization, spread misinformation, and erode human dignity. Malaysia, as a rapidly developing nation embracing digital transformation, can align with the Vatican’s call for ethical guidelines and international cooperation to ensure that AI serves humanity responsibly. This shared vision accentuates the importance of empowering individuals, especially the youth, to navigate the digital era with critical awareness and ethical considerations.

• Overall, the papal audience was a moment of profound reflection on the role of diplomacy in addressing global challenges. It reinforced the importance of moral leadership in international affairs and provided an opportunity to align Malaysia’s diplomatic engagement with the Vatican’s global advocacy for peace, social justice, and environmental responsibility.

3. Is it possible to further promote interreligious dialogue, which forms the foundation for lasting peace among peoples?

• Yes, and I believe it is not only possible but absolutely necessary. Interreligious dialogue is a fundamental pillar of peaceful coexistence and social harmony. In a world where religious misunderstandings and intolerance have sometimes led to divisions, it is imperative that we work together to build bridges and foster mutual understanding.

• Malaysia has always been deeply committed to interfaith harmony. As a multicultural and multireligious society, we have long recognized that dialogue between different religious communities is essential for national unity and peace. Our experience in managing religious diversity provides valuable lessons on how interfaith dialogue can be nurtured in a way that promotes mutual respect and cooperation.

• At an international level, Malaysia has actively engaged in promoting interreligious dialogue through platforms such as the International Conference of Religious Leaders, which we co-hosted with the Muslim World League in 2024. This conference brought together religious leaders from different faiths to discuss how religion can be a force for good in addressing global challenges. It was encouraging to see representatives from the Catholic Church, including Archbishop Julian Leow and Fr. George Harrison, actively contributing to these discussions.

• The Holy See has been at the forefront of interfaith engagement through the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, and Malaysia is eager to explore further collaboration in this area. We believe that religious leaders have a crucial role to play in promoting peace, countering extremism, and addressing social challenges such as poverty and inequality.

• Moreover, interreligious dialogue should not be confined to formal discussions among religious leaders. It must extend to educational institutions, civil society, and grassroots communities. Schools, universities, and media platforms all have an important role to play in fostering interfaith understanding. Religious tolerance and interreligious dialogue must be nurtured from a young age, as childhood and adolescence are formative periods when values, perceptions, and attitudes toward others are shaped. Education serves as the most effective tool in cultivating empathy, respect, and an appreciation for diversity. 

• By integrating interreligious education into curriculums, incorporating lessons on different faith traditions, and promoting cultural exchange programs, we can ensure that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and values necessary for peaceful coexistence. Schools provide a structured environment where young minds can learn to engage in meaningful discussions, dispel misconceptions, and build friendships across religious divides, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

• In Malaysia, we encourage Malaysians from different religious backgrounds to engage in dialogue and community service together. Such efforts demonstrate that interfaith cooperation is not just about theological discussions but also about working together to address common societal challenges.

• Ultimately, promoting interreligious dialogue requires commitment, patience, and goodwill. It is not a one-time effort but a continuous process of learning, engagement, and collaboration. The more we invest in fostering dialogue and understanding, the stronger the foundation for lasting peace among peoples.

4. What role do culture and education, occasions of meetings among distant peoples play in fostering dialogue and understanding? And how does Malaysia contribute in this field?

• Culture and education serve as powerful bridges between civilizations, fostering mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation. Throughout history, exchanges in literature, art, philosophy, and academic discourse have been instrumental in breaking down barriers and dispelling misconceptions between diverse societies.

• When people from different backgrounds engage with each other through cultural events, music, language, and artistic expression, they gain deeper insights into each other’s traditions, values, and worldviews. Culture has the unique ability to transcend political and ideological differences, allowing individuals and communities to connect on a human level.

• Similarly, education plays a critical role in shaping minds and attitudes. It equips individuals with the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to appreciate different perspectives. Schools and universities are natural spaces for fostering intercultural dialogue, and through student exchanges, joint research projects, and academic partnerships, we can cultivate an environment where diversity is seen as a source of enrichment rather than division.

• Malaysia has always recognized the importance of cultural diplomacy in international relations. As a nation that is home to a mosaic of ethnic and religious communities—including Malays, Chinese, Indians, Indigenous peoples, and others—Malaysia’s own history is a testament to the value of intercultural exchange. Our traditions reflect a blend of influences from the Malay world, the Arab and Indian subcontinents, and European and East Asian cultures. This rich heritage allows Malaysia to engage in meaningful cultural diplomacy with various regions, including the Holy See.

• In the field of education, Malaysia has actively promoted international academic collaborations. Our universities have established partnerships with institutions across the world, including faith-based universities and research centers. The presence of religious studies programs and interfaith dialogue initiatives within our academic institutions further strengthens the role of education in fostering understanding.

• Moreover, Malaysia hosts international students from diverse backgrounds, including those from Catholic-majority countries. The exposure to Malaysia’s pluralistic society provides these students with firsthand experience in navigating religious diversity, which they can then carry back to their home countries.

• In terms of cultural exchange, Malaysia has participated in global exhibitions, musical performances, and heritage festivals that showcase our traditions. By promoting culture and education as platforms for dialogue, we not only build bridges between distant peoples but also create a shared space where values of tolerance, respect, and mutual appreciation can thrive. This is a commitment that Malaysia continues to uphold, both domestically and in our diplomatic engagements.

5. This is a special year for Christians worldwide: the year of the Jubilee, a time of forgiveness. What are your thoughts on this?

• The Jubilee Year is a deeply significant occasion for Christians around the world. Rooted in biblical tradition, it is a time for renewal, reconciliation, and spiritual reflection. It is also a period that calls for mercy and forgiveness, not only at an individual level but also within communities and societies.

• The values embodied in the Jubilee which are compassion, justice, and fraternity are universal. They resonate beyond Christianity and find echoes in other religious traditions which emphasizes the importance of mercy, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Many of the moral teachings shared across faiths encourage believers to seek peace, mend broken relationships, and work towards social justice.

• In today’s world, where conflicts persist and divisions sometimes seem insurmountable, the spirit of the Jubilee offers a powerful reminder of the need for healing and dialogue. Forgiveness is not always easy, especially in the face of deep wounds—whether at the personal, national, or international level. However, as history has shown, reconciliation is a vital step toward sustainable peace.

• Malaysia recognizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in building a harmonious society. As a nation that values multiculturalism and interfaith dialogue, we believe that fostering an environment where past grievances can be addressed with honesty and empathy is crucial to social cohesion. The spirit of the Jubilee can inspire broader conversations about restorative justice, unity, and the shared responsibility of all peoples to contribute to a more just and compassionate world.

• Moreover, this Jubilee Year coincides with significant global challenges, including conflicts, economic hardships, and environmental crises. Pope Francis has consistently urged the world to adopt a posture of humility and service, emphasizing that moral leadership is not about power but about caring for the vulnerable. Malaysia shares this perspective and continues to advocate for international cooperation in addressing humanitarian issues, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring that no one is left behind.

• The Jubilee also serves as an opportunity for interreligious solidarity. As Christians celebrate this sacred year, it presents a moment for people of different faiths to come together in mutual support and reflection. Interfaith initiatives that promote acts of charity, community service, and dialogue during this period can serve as meaningful expressions of unity.

6. Will Malaysia organize cultural events in Rome during 2025?

• Cultural diplomacy is an essential part of Malaysia’s international engagement, and we recognize the importance of showcasing our heritage on the global stage. While specific plans for cultural events in Rome during 2025 are still being developed, we are keen to organize initiatives that highlight Malaysia’s rich diversity and foster deeper connections between our people and the international community.

• Given that 2025 marks the Jubilee Year, there is an opportunity for Malaysia to contribute to the cultural and interfaith dialogue taking place in Rome. We are exploring collaborations with local institutions, universities, and cultural organizations to present programs that reflect Malaysia’s commitment to religious harmony and interreligious dialogue.

• We are considering academic forums and roundtable discussions on interfaith cooperation, featuring Malaysian scholars and religious leaders who can share Malaysia’s experiences in fostering social cohesion. Given the strong presence of universities and theological institutions in Rome, such discussions could create valuable exchanges between Malaysian and Vatican-affiliated academic communities.

• Another potential avenue is culinary diplomacy. Malaysian cuisine, which blends Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous influences, is a testament to the country’s cultural fusion. A Malaysian food festival in Rome could introduce audiences to our unique culinary traditions while serving as a platform for informal cultural exchange.

• Ultimately, our goal is to contribute meaningfully to the cultural landscape of Rome in 2025 while strengthening the bonds between Malaysia and the Holy See. Through these initiatives, we hope to enhance mutual appreciation and deepen the spirit of friendship between our nations.

7. Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025?

• I would also like to take this opportunity to talk about Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025. Malaysia assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship from January 1 to December 31, 2025, marking its fifth time leading the regional bloc. This chairmanship is an opportunity to shape ASEAN’s trajectory, particularly in fostering a more inclusive and sustainable community.

• As Chair, Malaysia will lead the 46th ASEAN Summit, which will commemorate the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN Community and endorse the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, charting ASEAN’s path for the next 20 years. 

• The theme for Malaysia’s Chairmanship is inclusivity and sustainability. The theme reflects Malaysia’s MADANI values and aligns with ASEAN’s long-term goals. It encapsulates the vision of a resilient, people-centered, and forward-looking ASEAN, ensuring that economic growth, social progress, and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. Inclusivity and Sustainability are interdependent and mutually reinforcing values. These values will be integrated across all aspects of ASEAN Community development. 

• Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship theme for 2025, “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” emphasizes shared progress, narrowing development gaps, and fostering regional unity through economic and technological advancements. This vision is in line with Pope Francis’s recent call for a “diplomacy of hope” based on truth, forgiveness, freedom, and justice.

• Both perspectives highlight the importance of unity and collective progress. Malaysia’s focus on inclusivity aims to ensure that all ASEAN member states benefit equitably from regional development, aligns with the Pope’s emphasis on overcoming polarization and fostering dialogue.

Carlo Marino with the Ambassador of Malaysia to Holy See