Malaysia Must Stay Calm and Focus on People’s Welfare, Says Anwar
KUALA LUMPUR : Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on Malaysians to reject sentiment-driven politics, stressing that national leadership must be guided by calmness, wisdom, and a strong commitment to protecting the welfare of the people.
Speaking to reporters after performing Friday prayers at Masjid Saidina Hamzah on Friday, Anwar said the current global situation particularly the ongoing violence in Gaza, southern Lebanon, and Iran has deeply affected people worldwide, including Malaysians.
The Prime Minister warned against allowing emotions and instability to dictate political decisions, noting that even economically strong and peaceful nations are being impacted by growing international uncertainty.
“The effects of this situation are being felt even in our region,” Anwar said. “That is why our politics should not be driven by sentiment. We must remain calm, exercise wisdom, and focus on safeguarding the welfare of the people.”
He added that the uncertain global economic climate continues to contribute to international instability and expressed hope that world leaders would act with sound judgment and responsibility.
Anwar also criticised what he described as Western hypocrisy over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and southern Lebanon, saying hopes for Europe and the United States to uphold democracy and justice were fading.
“If we are to rely on Europe and America to uphold the spirit of democracy and justice, that hope appears to have completely faded,” he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated Malaysia’s firm support for oppressed communities, particularly Palestinians, and said the continued suffering in Gaza has sparked anger across the Muslim world.
“Imagine if this were happening to a Jewish person. I do not support such injustice in any form, but our anger comes from the fact that this oppression continues unabated,” he said.
Calling for greater unity among Islamic nations, Anwar revealed that he had recently been in contact with the President of Iran, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, the President of Türkiye, and the Saudi Crown Prince to discuss the escalating regional tensions.
He stressed that Malaysia would continue to defend the principles of freedom, justice, and human rights regardless of religion or nationality.
“As for Malaysia, we will continue to uphold the principle of freedom and speak firmly for what is right,” he said.
Anwar further stated that Malaysia’s voice on global humanitarian issues would remain strong and outspoken as violence and repeated attacks continue in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran without any clear resolution.