Latest news with #AnwarIbrahim
CNA
2 hours ago
- Business
- CNA
Malaysian Trade Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz quits UMNO to join ruling PKR
SINGAPORE: Malaysia's Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz announced his decision on Friday (May 30) to quit the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), and join Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's ruling Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR). Tengku Zafrul's defection comes just days after two Cabinet ministers resigned from their posts. In a Facebook post on Friday night, Tengku Zafrul said he had tendered his resignation as an UMNO supreme council member, a Kota Raja division chief, and a party member. 'This decision was not an easy one,' he said. 'Before taking this decision, I have sought advice and views from my friends from within and outside the party including the president himself.' Tengku Zafrul said he took a long time to consider his decision, as UMNO was the only political party he had ever joined, since 1997. 'Ultimately, this decision was made after self-discipline and taking into account various factors especially the compatibility and conformity factors," he added. Tengku Zafrul's resignation on Friday confirms months of speculation that he would jump ship from UMNO to PKR. In December last year, PKR President Anwar Ibrahim admitted that Tengku Zafrul was in preliminary talks with the party, despite UMNO saying it would not allow any such move. Tengku Zafrul said in his Facebook post he would begin the application process to become a PKR member, adding that he 'expressed intentions to the PKR president and secretary-general to join the party'. He also thanked those who supported him during his time in UMNO. Anwar's daughter Nurul Izzah.
The Star
3 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Malaysian PM Anwar highlights Vietnam's key role in Asean
KUALA LUMPUR/HANOI (Bernama-VNA): Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has described Vietnam as a very significant member within the Association of South-East Asian Nations (Asean), while speaking to Vietnam News Agency (VNA) correspondents in Kuala Lumpur. PM Anwar said both Malaysia and he personally value the progress made in cooperation between the two countries. Talking about Vietnam's role within the bloc, the PM noted that he maintains regular contact with Vietnamese leaders to exchange views on Asean-related issues, including the US's new tariff policy and the situation in Myanmar. Malaysia and Vietnam are working closely together on these issues, he said, noting that Vietnam supports Malaysia's initiative to promote the Asean Power Grid. Reflecting on the growing relationship between the two countries, especially after it was elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership in November 2024, Anwar said there have already been clear results in several fields. He cited enhanced bilateral trade and investment cooperation, including the collaboration between the two countries' national oil and gas corporations. Addressing the remaining challenges, the Malaysian leader expressed confidence that the two countries are always willing to find solutions together. Malaysian experts have also shared insights into Vietnam's growing role within Asean. Speaking to the VNA, Dr. Oh Ei Sun, Principal Adviser at Malaysia's Pacific Research Centre, described Vietnam as a dynamic and effective participant at the recent ASsean Summit in Kuala Lumpur. He noted that the Vietnamese Prime Minister, in his address at the summit, outlined three key focuses, with a strong emphasis on the need for Asean to adopt a development mindset grounded in inclusiveness. The expert stressed this was a crucial point, highlighting Vietnam as an example. Over the past two to three decades, the country has made a remarkable leap - from a peripheral player to a central and increasingly influential member of Asean. This, he said, demonstrates the importance of ensuring all member states, regardless of their level of development, can engage fully and effectively in the bloc. Citing Vietnam's experience, he expressed confidence that less developed members could also rise with support from stronger economies within Asean. Beyond inclusiveness, Oh said the Vietnamese PM also underlined the importance of connectivity. Thanks to its important location, Vietnam plays a crucial role in linking Southeast Asia's shipping routes and is expected to contribute significantly to the region's railway network. In terms of resilience, he commended the PM for addressing the issue at a right time. With a large and young population and strong rice production capacity, Vietnam has the potential to boost exports to other Asean countries, including Malaysia. He added that Asean members could learn valuable lessons regarding food and energy security from Vietnam. The expert added that the Vietnamese PM's speech on inclusiveness, connectivity, and resilience was relevant and useful to Asean members at this year's summit. Regarding Malaysia-Vietnam relations, Dr Oh highlighted the two countries's elevation of their bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in last November, saying it is a timely decision and the relations have been witnessing many positive changes. Specifically, more and more Vietnamese students pursue studies at universities in Malaysia; bilateral trade is also on the rise; the two countries coordinate effectively, and make contributions to the development of Asean. More importantly, both countries support the admission of Timor-Leste as a new Asean member, as well as assist to develop its economy. Sharing the same view with Dr Oh on Vietnam's role in Asean, Collins Chong Yew Keat, an expert on foreign affairs and security at the University of Malaya, affirmed that Vietnam has a very positive influence on the development of Asean with its great contributions in many fields. Vietnam is currently playing an active role in promoting energy transition, digital transformation and ensuring food security. This is a great support for all other Asean members as well as the bilateral relationship between Vietnam and Malaysia. Chong emphasised that it is clear that Vietnam's role in Asean's development as well as building a stronger, more resilient, more inclusive and sustainable Asean in all areas. This is reflected in Vietnam's spectacular and transformational economic growth rate, improving people's lives as well as its determination to move towards a digital economy, a green economy, and sustainable development. He expressed his belief that Vietnam will be one of the leading countries in Asean and together with other members, including Malaysia, promote the common agenda of a more prosperous, inclusive, unified Asean with peace, stability and safety. -- BERNAMA-VNA
The Star
3 hours ago
- Politics
- The Star
From Gaza to South China Sea: Malaysians laud Anwar's bold Asean diplomacy
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's Chairmanship of Asean this year has been hailed as a diplomatic success, marked by strong joint statements reflecting unity among member states, especially in addressing pressing global humanitarian and regional security issues. Even the general Malaysian public praised Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's bold leadership, particularly on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His firm stance, they noted, garnered support from Asean leaders, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and China, culminating in a unified statement condemning violence against civilians. Pensioner Minati Hamir, 70, said she fully supports the government's unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights of Palestinians who have long suffered under prolonged conflict. "As Asean Chair, Malaysia has a powerful platform to push for more effective regional diplomacy and global awareness campaigns. "Support for Gaza must extend beyond Muslim nations. This is a humanitarian crisis that demands action and solidarity from all nations that uphold justice, regardless of religion or ethnicity,' she told Bernama when contacted. Minati, who is also a former school principal, also called on the government to broaden awareness campaigns, particularly among the younger generation, so the atrocities and suffering in Gaza are never forgotten. Sharing her sentiments, Anni Holilah Syahuddin, 23, a public university student, expressed hope that the recent summit resolutions would lead to peace in Gaza. "The bloodshed feels endless. I hope their decades-long suffering will finally end with liberation from Israeli occupation,' she said. Lauren Yee, 35, a private sector employee, congratulated the Prime Minister for his effective diplomacy as Asean Chair, especially in managing complex regional issues such as tensions in the South China Sea. "As Malaysians, we hope peaceful resolutions can be achieved through diplomacy, particularly since China is one of our key trading partners. In today's uncertain global economy, maintaining regional stability is crucial,' she said. Yee also expressed confidence in Anwar's ability to navigate international affairs with diplomacy and credibility. "We need wise, credible leadership to maintain regional cooperation and stability. Asean may be small geographically, but we must project unity and strength in the face of global geopolitical challenges,' she added. Meanwhile, Lim San Shien, 25, a Government's Unity Ambassador and National Bahasa Melayu Icon, said Malaysia's successful hosting of the Asean Summit reaffirmed Asean Centrality, positioning the region as a hub of peace, security, and robust economic cooperation. "This summit also addressed youth issues. I hope young people, as the future of Asean, will be further empowered through initiatives that develop talent, encourage dialogue, and enable skills-sharing,' he said. Lim pointed to the launch of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Asean 2045: Our Shared Future as a significant outcome - a roadmap for deeper bilateral and multilateral cooperation across sectors, including economics and socio-cultural development. "Malaysia must mainstream Asean's values, identity, and unity, and show that we can navigate complex geopolitical and geo-economic environments together,' he added. The Prime Minister, in his exit press conference after the conclusion of the summit, credited the success of the 46th Asean Summit to collective effort and team spirit across government and society. Anwar said the smooth organisation of the preparatory meetings, the summit and related summits from May 23 to 27 was the result of exceptional commitment from government machinery and the public's shared understanding of Malaysia's regional role as Asean Chair 2025 under the theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability'. - Bernama
The Sun
4 hours ago
- Politics
- The Sun
Celebration of Kaamatan, Gawai Festivals reflect country's diverse culture and heritage
KUALA LUMPUR: The celebration of the Kaamatan and Gawai Festivals are not merely harvest festivals, but instead reflects a part of Malaysia's diverse and unique heritage and culture, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He stated that the celebrations, observed by communities in Sabah and Sarawak in a spirit of gratitude and consensus, also showcase a noble and MADANI aspect of humanity, which must continue to be highlighted as well as strengthen the spirit of pluralism that symbolizes unity. 'These celebrations, among other things, serve as a reflection of harmony, peaceful coexistence, and a symbolic expression of gratitude to nature and its bounty. 'Let us collectively strengthen our resolve and continue to work towards ensuring that Sabah and Sarawak continue to receive equitable development, both in terms of infrastructure development, education, and health, so that the well-being of the people and future generations remain assured,' he said via a Facebook post today. The Prime Minister also extended his greetings of Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan and Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai to all communities in Sabah and Sarawak.
The Sun
4 hours ago
- Politics
- The Sun
Kaamatan, Gawai celebrations reflect the country's rich heritage
KUALA LUMPUR: The celebration of the Kaamatan and Gawai Festivals are not merely harvest festivals, but instead reflects a part of Malaysia's diverse and unique heritage and culture, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He stated that the celebrations, observed by communities in Sabah and Sarawak in a spirit of gratitude and consensus, also showcase a noble and MADANI aspect of humanity, which must continue to be highlighted as well as strengthen the spirit of pluralism that symbolizes unity. 'These celebrations, among other things, serve as a reflection of harmony, peaceful coexistence, and a symbolic expression of gratitude to nature and its bounty. 'Let us collectively strengthen our resolve and continue to work towards ensuring that Sabah and Sarawak continue to receive equitable development, both in terms of infrastructure development, education, and health, so that the well-being of the people and future generations remain assured,' he said via a Facebook post today. The Prime Minister also extended his greetings of Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan and Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai to all communities in Sabah and Sarawak.
