“If the Indian government makes a request to extradite him (Naik) based on Mutual Legal Assistance, we will return him.

“So far, there is no such request,” he said during the debate on Budget 2018 in the Dewan Rakyat.

Zahid, who is also the home minister, confirmed that Naik had not applied for Malaysian citizenship.

He was responding to remarks by Gobind Singh Deo (DAP-Puchong) who read out excerpts from an article by The Hindustan Times published on May 30, 2017, which claimed Naik had applied to be a Malaysian citizen.

“Will the government take into account the charges of terrorism when deciding on his (Naik’s) application?” Gobind asked.

The Malaysian government had previously acknowledged that Naik had been granted permanent residence status.

Authorities in India have accused Naik of funding terrorism, and India’s National Intelligence Agency (NIA) last week filed charges against him in court, the Times of India reported.

The 52-year-old was reportedly charged under India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act with inciting youths to take up terror acts and join global terror groups such as the Islamic State.

NIA was previously reported to have written to Interpol asking it to issue a “red notice” for the arrest of the preacher.

Zahid added Naik will be allowed to remain in the country as long as he follows Malaysia’s laws and does not promote violence.

“We’ll monitor his activities and action will be taken if he goes against the laws of the country.”

He added the home ministry had heard speeches made by Naik and it does not promote violence.

On criticism of other religions, he said Naik’s videos did not show that it promotes violence.

“It is an interpretation,” added Zahid.

Earlier, M Kulasegaran (DAP-Ipoh Barat) questioned Zahid on how Naik got Malaysian permanent residence as he does not speak Malay.

“How was he given permanent residence? His speeches also involve criticism of other religions.”

Zahid said for permanent residence, knowing Malay was not a condition.