The British artiste formerly known as Cat Stevens said Malaysia has increasingly become a meaningful place for reflection and future humanitarian initiatives as he continues promoting messages of peace, purpose and unity.
At age 77, Yusuf remains actively involved in educational and humanitarian work through schools, foundations and creative initiatives in the UK inspired by the values of compassion and coexistence.
Among them is The Maqam, a youth creative centre envisioned as a meeting point for people of different backgrounds and faiths.
“The maqam comes from where Abraham stood when he built the house of God in Makkah,” he told Bernama. “We believe in Abraham as the father of all religions, and there is so much that unites rather than divides us.”
Yusuf said the project reflects his belief that creativity, dialogue and shared values can help foster greater understanding in an increasingly divided world.
His humanitarian efforts also continue through the “Peace Train” initiative – named after one of his best-known songs – which focuses on charitable outreach and spreading messages of peace.
He said the values guiding his work are deeply influenced by the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
For young Malaysians searching for direction in life, he offers simple advice rooted in gratitude and self-awareness.
“Forget about what you lost, think about what you’ve got,” he said. “Don’t think about what is outside your powers. Deal with what you have and you’ll rise.”
Reflecting on his own spiritual journey, Yusuf described finding peace through Islam as one of the defining experiences of his life.
“The best of people are the ones who are most beneficial for the people,” he said, quoting Prophet Muhammad.
Indeed, his music continues to resonate with younger generations today, particularly on social media platforms where classics such as “Father and Son” have found new audiences.
Asked about the enduring popularity of the song, Yusuf said its themes of family, change and generational understanding remain universally relatable.
Meanwhile, National Film Development Corporation (Finas) chief executive officer Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib said Yusuf is exploring creative projects in Malaysia involving music, storytelling and animation.
According to Azmir, Yusuf – who owns a studio in Malaysia – is considering a Malay-language remake of “Wild World” and is also involved in a child-safety awareness programme.
Yusuf met with Azmir, communications minister Fahmi Fadzil and deputy minister Teo Nie Ching during a recent visit.
Born Steven Demetre Georgiou in London in 1948, Yusuf – then Cat Stevens – was one of the most influential singer-songwriters of the 1970s. He converted to Islam in December 1977 and took on the name Yusuf Islam the following year.