Kuala Lumpur: Muslims are easily oppressed and defeated in war because false religious teachings have made them backward, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad said on July 10.

Palestinian suicide bombers were regarded by many Muslims as martyrs, but no merit is accorded to the people who study science, mathematics, engineering etc which are essential for building the Defence capabilities of Muslim countries, he said.

While criticising the West's linking of Islam and terrorism, Mahathir said, "Our salvation will not be achieved by blindly killing innocent people. Rather, we should plan and execute a long-term development plan to excel in all fields."

Mahathir, who has been in power in this rapidly-developing South East Asian nation for 22 years, told 800 delegates that some religious leaders had made today's Muslims very confused and divided and unable to cope with changes in the world.

The conference, which ends July 12, is expected to discuss setting up a permanent secretariat as a think-tank for Muslim scholars worldwide.

ANI