Pakistan announces top civilian award for Muslim World League chief
Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari has approved the conferment of the Nishan-e-Khidmat (Order of Service), one of the country’s highest civilian awards, on Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League (MWL). The decision was announced in a statement from the president’s office on Sunday, July 12, 2026, in recognition of Al-Issa’s services to promote interfaith harmony and cooperation among the Muslim Ummah.
Dr. Al-Issa, a leading global voice for moderation and dialogue, has been instrumental in fostering understanding between different cultures and faiths. The MWL, an independent organization based in Makkah with members from all Islamic countries and sects, works to advance interfaith harmony worldwide.
Details of the award and honorary doctorate
According to the president’s statement, the Nishan-e-Khidmat is conferred for distinguished public service or significant contributions in various fields. The award will be given to Al-Issa for his contributions to promoting interfaith harmony, moderation, stronger cooperation among the Muslim Ummah, and his distinguished services to the Islamic world.
In addition, President Zardari approved awarding an honorary doctorate in Islamic Studies and International Relations to Dr. Al-Issa by the National University of Modern Languages (NUML). The statement did not specify a date for the conferment ceremony.
Al-Issa’s previous engagements with Pakistan
The MWL chief has visited Pakistan in the past and held talks with senior leadership on promoting interfaith harmony and issues concerning the Muslim Ummah. His efforts have been widely acknowledged, and this award underscores Pakistan’s commitment to recognizing global leaders who work for peace and unity.
The Nishan-e-Khidmat is one of Pakistan’s highest civil awards, typically conferred on individuals who have rendered exceptional services to the nation or humanity. The decision to honor Al-Issa reflects Pakistan’s appreciation for his role in bridging divides and fostering dialogue among diverse communities.
