COAS Asim Munir and Imran Khan Ranked Among Top 500 Most Influential Muslims

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Army Chief Asim Munir, former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Nobel Prize winner Malala Yousafzai, religious leader Mufti Taqi Usmani, and many other Pakistanis have been recognized in the 2025 edition of The Muslim 500: The World’s 500 Most Influential Muslims.

This annual publication, launched in 2009 by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Center in Amman, Jordan, identifies the most impactful Muslims globally. It highlights figures who influence the Muslim community through culture, ideology, finance, politics, or other significant contributions.

This year, Pakistan’s leaders from both civilian and military sectors, as well as philanthropists and professionals, have been honored. The Muslim 500 noted Shehbaz Sharif’s political journey, including his tenure as Prime Minister in 2022-2023 and his role as Chief Minister of Punjab multiple times.

General Asim Munir was highlighted for being the first Pakistani Army Chief to have memorized the entire Qur’an and for leading the country’s military intelligence.

The list also mentioned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, despite his imprisonment, and recognized his enduring popularity. Religious figures like Mufti Taqi Usmani, as well as social advocates like Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and Dr. Adibul Hasan Rizvi, were also included for their contributions to society.