Tag: Anwar Ibrahim

Unity Government Leaders Agree to Maintain Cooperation in Negeri Sembilan

The Unity Government Leadership Consultative Council, co-chaired by Anwar Ibrahim and Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday, has agreed to maintain cooperation between UMNO and Pakatan Harapan in Negeri Sembilan. In a meeting held on 5 May 2026, the council reached a consensus to preserve the Unity Government framework in the state, emphasizing the importance of political stability and the well-being of the people. The council also expressed respect for the positions taken by both parties’ political bureaus concerning ongoing issues in Negeri Sembilan. Additionally, the council decided that any state government decisions that could potentially spark sensitivities or lead to disputes must be promptly referred to the joint consultative body for further deliberation. The statement was jointly issued by Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki following the meeting. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB PAKATAN HARAPAN

The Unity Government Leadership Consultative Council, co-chaired by Anwar Ibrahim and Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday, has agreed to maintain cooperation between UMNO and Pakatan Harapan in Negeri Sembilan. In a meeting held on 5 May 2026, the council reached a consensus to preserve the Unity Government framework in the state, emphasizing the importance of political […]

MARA at 60 Must Champion Fair Opportunity, Not Just Celebrate Legacy – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the 60th anniversary of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) should not be viewed as a routine institutional milestone, but as a profound reflection of Malaysia’s long journey in balancing merit, justice, and social responsibility. In a statement today, Anwar stressed that MARA’s legacy represents more than six decades of policy—it embodies the nation’s ongoing effort to build a more inclusive future. “The debate on affirmative action has never subsided. It is often reduced to narrow and simplistic arguments,” he said, noting that criticisms rooted in pure meritocracy—such as those associated with American economist Thomas Sowell—should not be adopted uncritically without considering Malaysia’s unique socio-economic realities. Anwar argued that perspectives emphasizing unrestricted competition risk overlooking structural inequalities. Drawing from the tradition of economist John Kenneth Galbraith, he said social justice is not merely rhetorical but a structural necessity to prevent communities from being trapped in cycles of marginalisation. “Justice must be upheld not to deny merit, but to correct longstanding imbalances. Without principled intervention, meritocracy risks becoming a tool that legitimises inequality rather than resolving it,” he added. Referencing philosopher John Rawls’ concept of “justice as fairness,” Anwar questioned the validity of demanding equal competition without first ensuring equal access. “How can we expect fair competition between elite urban schools and students in remote areas such as Kapit, Manik Urai, Hulu Kelantan or Hulu Pahang, without first guaranteeing equitable opportunities and foundations?” he said. Anwar concluded that justice must ultimately manifest through equal opportunity, reaffirming MARA’s continued role as a vehicle for empowerment—particularly in education, entrepreneurship, and social mobility. “MARA must continue to uplift every child of the nation, regardless of background or geography, so they may rise with dignity and strong competitiveness,” he said. -- Minutes MY --Credit: FB Anwar Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the 60th anniversary of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) should not be viewed as a routine institutional milestone, but as a profound reflection of Malaysia’s long journey in balancing merit, justice, and social responsibility. In a statement today, Anwar stressed that MARA’s legacy represents more than six decades […]

Anwar Ibrahim Expresses Gratitude to Sultan of Terengganu Following Royal Audience

KUALA LUMPUR, 13 APRIL — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday expressed his highest respect and gratitude to His Royal Highness Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin for graciously granting him an audience earlier yesterday. During the meeting, the Prime Minister presented updates on the latest developments concerning the nation as well as the state of Terengganu, highlighting […]

Calls For Action Against Rafizi: PM Anwar Says Focus On Economy First

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged all parties to focus on economic issues facing the country rather than internal political matters. Anwar, who is also PKR president, said this includes calls by several party leaders for action to be taken against former PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli. “It is okay. I advise them to remain calm and focus on economic issues facing the country, which are far more serious than personal matters,” he told reporters after performing Friday prayers and solat hajat at Masjid Nurussaadah here today. Previously, several party leaders, including PKR Central Leadership Council member A. Kumaresan, had called for action to be taken against Rafizi, alleging that the Pandan MP was undermining the party. Earlier, Rafizi challenged PKR to sack him when defending several statements he made against the party leadership, which were listed in the second show-cause letter issued yesterday. Rafizi has reportedly been vocal in criticising the government and PKR since stepping down as PKR deputy president and resigning as economy minister in May last year.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged all parties to focus on economic issues facing the country rather than internal political matters. Anwar, who is also PKR president, said this includes calls by several party leaders for action to be taken against former PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi […]

Malaysia to Accelerate Transition to AI City Model – PM Anwar

PUTRAJAYA,10 April -- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the urgency of transitioning Malaysia’s urban development strategy from Smart Cities to a more advanced AI City model, describing it as a important milestone in the nation’s aspiration to become a leading AI-driven country. Chairing a special meeting on the research and coordination of the AI City model implementation, Anwar said Malaysia is now at a critical juncture that requires a more strategic and forward-looking approach to urban planning and governance. “This shift goes beyond the adoption of new technologies. It requires a comprehensive transformation in how we plan, administer, and manage our cities to be more efficient, resilient, and data-driven,” he said in a statement. Anwar stressed that the success of the AI City initiative hinges on the development of a robust ecosystem, including secure artificial intelligence and data governance frameworks, high-capacity digital infrastructure, and the cultivation of local talent. He added that strong policy frameworks will also be essential to support responsible innovation while ensuring public trust and accountability. The meeting agreed that the Ministry of Digital Malaysia will serve as the main coordinating body, working closely with relevant ministries and agencies to drive the initiative forward. “The government will continue to strengthen synergy across all stakeholders to ensure effective and high-impact implementation, ultimately benefiting the rakyat and enhancing Malaysia’s competitiveness as a global AI nation,” he said. The move reflects Malaysia’s broader ambition to position itself at the forefront of digital transformation and artificial intelligence development in the region. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Anwar Ibrahim

PUTRAJAYA,10 April — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the urgency of transitioning Malaysia’s urban development strategy from Smart Cities to a more advanced AI City model, describing it as a important milestone in the nation’s aspiration to become a leading AI-driven country. Chairing a special meeting on the research and coordination of the AI […]

Malaysia–Bangladesh Strengthen Labour Cooperation and Bilateral Ties – PM Anwar Ibrahim

PUTRAJAYA, 10 APRIL — Malaysia and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in labour cooperation and shared interests, following a courtesy call by a Bangladeshi delegation in Putrajaya today. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he received Bangladesh’s Minister of Labour and Employment, Ariful Haque Choudhury, along with the Prime Minister’s Advisor, Dr Mahdi Amin. According to Anwar, the meeting provided a platform to discuss various aspects of bilateral cooperation as well as issues of mutual concern between the two countries. During the meeting, he also reiterated his congratulations to Tarique Rahman on his appointment as Prime Minister of Bangladesh on February 17, and once again extended an invitation for him to visit Malaysia in the near future to further strengthen existing ties. On labour cooperation, Anwar stressed Malaysia’s commitment to continue safeguarding the welfare of hundreds of thousands of Bangladeshi workers in the country, particularly in the construction and manufacturing sectors. At the same time, he highlighted the need to reduce the cost of hiring foreign workers and urged the Bangladesh government to consider measures to lower these costs for the well-being of workers. “God willing, the Malaysia–Bangladesh friendship will continue to be strengthened, grounded in mutual trust and shared benefits,” he said. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Photo: FB Anwar Ibrahim

PUTRAJAYA, 10 APRIL — Malaysia and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in labour cooperation and shared interests, following a courtesy call by a Bangladeshi delegation in Putrajaya today. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he received Bangladesh’s Minister of Labour and Employment, Ariful Haque Choudhury, along with the Prime […]

Malaysia Appreciates Iran’s Support in Ensuring Energy Security – PM Anwar Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR, April 8 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday expressed Malaysia’s appreciation to Iran for facilitating the passage of Malaysian oil tankers through the strategic Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia. The matter was conveyed during a meeting with the Ambassador of Iran to Malaysia, Valiollah Mohammadi, held on the sidelines of the Kuala Lumpur–Ankara Dialogue earlier today. Anwar noted that the decision by Iran comes at a critical time, as tensions in the region continue to impact global energy markets and supply chains. “In the current climate of uncertainty following the West Asia crisis, Malaysia highly values Iran’s decision to allow our oil vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said. He added that the move plays a crucial role in ensuring the continuity of the nation’s energy supply, while also helping to ease pressure on the cost of living and supporting overall economic stability. The Prime Minister emphasised that Malaysia remains committed to strengthening diplomatic ties and cooperation with international partners to safeguard national interests, particularly in times of global uncertainty. --Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris --Photo: FB Anwar Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR, April 8 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday expressed Malaysia’s appreciation to Iran for facilitating the passage of Malaysian oil tankers through the strategic Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia. The matter was conveyed during a meeting with the Ambassador of Iran to Malaysia, Valiollah Mohammadi, held on the […]

PM Anwar Calls For A Renewed Global Commitment To Diplomacy

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today called for the immediate de-escalation of conflicts in West Asia and a renewed global commitment to diplomacy, warning that continued violence risks triggering far-reaching economic and security repercussions. Delivering his keynote address at the Kuala Lumpur-Ankara Dialogue 2026, Anwar described the current situation in West Asia as a “harsh and dismal reality”, marked by the loss of thousands of lives, destruction of civilian infrastructure and indiscriminate attacks on critical facilities. “As we gather to strengthen the linkages between Malaysia and Turkiye, we do so at a time when the world is once again confronted with a harsh and dismal reality, the tragedy of war in West Asia,” he said. Anwar noted that the ongoing conflict has resulted in immense human suffering, with thousands of lives lost and innocent civilians, including school children, being massacred while seeking shelter in their classrooms, bridges are blown to smithereens, and oil as well as nuclear installations are bombed indiscriminately. “The human and physical cost continues to mount, even as diplomatic efforts are being pursued to halt the violence and restore stability,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today called for the immediate de-escalation of conflicts in West Asia and a renewed global commitment to diplomacy, warning that continued violence risks triggering far-reaching economic and security repercussions. Delivering his keynote address at the Kuala Lumpur-Ankara Dialogue 2026, Anwar described the current situation […]