In a significant development ahead of a historic ASEAN gathering, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with the Conference of Rulers today at Istana Negara to provide a comprehensive update on Malaysia’s national and diplomatic priorities.
Top on the agenda was Malaysia’s preparation for the 47th ASEAN Summit, which is set to take place from October 26 to 28 in Kuala Lumpur. This summit is anticipated to be the largest in the ASEAN bloc’s history since its founding in 1976—underscoring Malaysia’s pivotal role in the region.
Speaking to reporters after officiating the ASEAN Conference on Future-Ready Public Service, Anwar described the palace briefing as a routine pre-council session to discuss key national matters. These included a planned visit from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has expressed interest in Malaysia’s strategic role during the summit. The Prime Minister also addressed Malaysia’s official position on Trump’s proposed Gaza peace initiative, a topic that continues to spark global conversation.
Additionally, Anwar updated the monarchs on Budget 2026, which he is scheduled to table in Parliament this Friday. As both Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Anwar’s role is central in crafting a budget that reflects Malaysia’s evolving economic vision and social priorities.
Due to his meeting at the palace, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul informed Parliament that Anwar was unable to attend the scheduled Minister’s Question Time session today.
As Malaysia steps into a global spotlight with the ASEAN Summit and simultaneously prepares for a pivotal financial roadmap, the Prime Minister’s engagements reflect a balancing act of diplomacy, governance, and visionary planning.
In the midst of high-level diplomacy and economic strategy, it’s easy to overlook the human side of leadership. But at the heart of every policy, summit, and plan are people—Malaysians from all walks of life—whose future depends on decisions made today. This is more than news; it’s a reflection of the nation’s pulse.
