Anwar says Malaysia must put its own house in order before changing the world

KUALA LUMPUR, July 2 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia’s foremost responsibility is to strengthen governance at home, stressing that meaningful contributions to global affairs must begin with domestic reform.

Speaking during a question-and-answer session at the 39th Asia-Pacific Roundtable here today, Anwar said his government’s priority was to improve governance, eradicate corruption, reduce inequality and ensure every citizen has access to quality education and healthcare.

He said while Malaysia would continue taking principled positions on international issues, its immediate focus remained on building a better nation and demonstrating that a Muslim-majority country could uphold democratic values, moderation and inclusivity.

“I would like to make sure that I can effect change and reform in my country. Let us use our power to champion the cause of all common men and women and ensure every citizen has the right to basic education and health,” he said.

Anwar also cautioned against viewing global divisions as a ‘clash of civilisations’, arguing instead that many conflicts stem from misunderstanding and prejudice.

Quoting the late Palestinian-American scholar Edward Said, the prime minister also described many international tensions as a “clash of ignorance”, saying people often formed judgments about others without genuine understanding.

He said Malaysia’s Madani framework places equal emphasis on technological advancement and human values, encouraging greater appreciation among people of different races, religions and cultures.

Referring to the Quranic concept of ‘li ta’arafu’, Anwar said societies should strive not merely to tolerate one another but to understand and appreciate their differences, adding that such an approach was especially important for a multiracial and multireligious country like Malaysia. — Bernama