HANOI – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim defended his frequent international trips, emphasizing their importance in attracting investments crucial for Malaysia’s economic growth. Addressing critics who suggested he should limit his travels, Anwar argued that they underestimated the effort required to secure foreign investment.
Speaking to Malaysian media after his keynote address at the 2nd Asean Future Forum in Hanoi, Anwar explained that his trips were tightly scheduled and focused on productive engagements. “I usually arrive in the evening, attend several meetings before checking into the hotel, and from 7 a.m., I’m involved in a series of bilateral meetings. When I return, I go straight to work. I didn’t even take a day off to play golf,” he said.
Anwar emphasized that as a trading nation, Malaysia depends heavily on foreign investment to create job opportunities and enhance economic growth. He highlighted that investment is essential for accelerating national development and addressing employment challenges.
The forum was attended by key regional leaders, including Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, New Zealand’s Christopher Luxon, and Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos Horta. Anwar’s visit to Vietnam marked his first since Malaysia assumed the ASEAN chairmanship in January.
Looking ahead, Anwar revealed that Malaysia would host South African leaders in March, followed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in April. “When Xi Jinping visits, he will be accompanied by a substantial delegation of business leaders exploring trade opportunities in Malaysia,” he noted, underlining the economic potential of these diplomatic engagements.
The impact of Anwar’s investment-driven diplomacy is already evident, as Malaysia recorded RM378.5 billion in approved investments in 2024, the highest in its history, according to Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz.