FORMER PM'S WIFE RECEIVES SPECIAL AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING MUSLIM CONVERT

KUALA LUMPUR, July 25 (Bernama) -- Jeanne Abdullah was Saturday awarded a
Special Award for Outstanding Muslim Convert 2009 in recognition to her
contribution in helping the poor and needy.

She was presented with the award at the National Muslim Converts Convention
2009 here today along with Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association deputy president
Dr Muhamad Fuad Abdullah and preacher Kamaruddin Abdullah, who received
Outstanding Muslim Convert Awards 2009.

Jeanne, who is the wife of former prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi,
Muhamad Fuad and Kamaruddin received the awards from Minister in the Prime
Minister's Department Jamil Khir Baharom at a ceremony hosted by the
Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) and the Federal Territories
Islamic Council.

In her speech, Jeanne said Jakim should use a friendly approach in
propagating Islam to portray the religion as a simple one to learn.

"I am so happy to become a Muslim. It is a beautiful religion that teaches
me to be humble, respecting others and caring for others," said Jeanne, who is
Open University Malaysia chancellor and Malaysian Paralympic Council patron.

-- BERNAMA