In the hurried flight paths of Kuala Lumpur, fresh from overseeing a three-day ASEAN conference, Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim carries himself a silent, restrained presence — a strident disparity to the often-sweltering environment of international policymaking.
In a private interview with ABC, Anwar spoke frankly about the subtle balancing act of current geopolitics — exchanging trade arrangements with the United States, engaging China over the South China Sea issue. He also spoke about the enduring regional struggles — all these, while promoting human rights all over the world.
Pragmatism with principle
When it comes to trade, Anwar mixes pragmatism with principle. Asked about US trade deals that some critics say favour Washington, he didn’t mince words: “I happen to be Malaysia’s prime minister. I will protect Malaysian interests.” Yet he also found room for praise, noting that the US president was “a good listener” during private talks, even inside the presidential limousine — a symbolic space where diplomacy meets performance.
While acknowledging challenges like the US “Liberation Day” tariffs, he reassured that Malaysia’s key economic sectors remain shielded. At the same time, he emphasised the importance of looking beyond traditional trade partners: “We are exploring new avenues to Latin America, to Africa, so that no one can impose any rules or policy again on us except on the basic principle of free, open-rules-based trade.”
This approach — standing firm without confrontation, remaining assertive without aggression — is what some might call a “cool” style of leadership.
ASEAN and regional harmony
Anwar’s humility shines through when discussing ASEAN. While other leaders may claim credit for regional breakthroughs, Anwar deflects praise: “The success is due to the governments of Thailand and Cambodia for their wisdom, their patience,” he said, describing his role as a facilitator rather than a spotlight-seeker.
The same patience guides his stance on Myanmar. Instead of delivering extensive denunciations and criticisms, he advocated conditional engagement — offering benevolent assistance in exchange for a termination of aggressions and warfare and impartial handling of private citizens. His concentration is on unhurried advancement, demonstrating that persistence and tolerance can coexist with ethical action.
Treading carefully with great powers
Malaysia’s management of the South China Sea issue echoes a corresponding flexibility. Instead of confronting China directly, Anwar opted for negotiation and teamwork: “We have not encountered problems… the consensus is to determine the code of conduct.” The importance he gave to compromise and concession over skirmish sticks out in a region frequently manifested by strategy and bluffing.
A steadfast voice for human rights
Anwar’s ethical precision and intelligibility are conceivably apparent when discoursing on Gaza and the predicament of Palestinians. His assessment of global indecision is piercing yet restrained, calling out both unfairness and the global community’s fiascos. While he recognises the positive steps made, he stays firm in supporting human self-respect and lasting solutions. His “coolness” here is not apathy, but unselfish, intentional engagement.
So, is Anwar Ibrahim a “cool” Prime Minister?
If being “cool” means being calm under pressure and amidst burden, calculated during negotiations, modest in success, honourable in encouragement, and persevering in peacekeeping, then yes — Anwar Ibrahim fits the bill. He dodges showing off, refuses to intensify competitions for display, and stabilises Malaysia’s welfare with regional permanency and global accountability.
In an environment where leaders are repeatedly judged by grandiloquence or theatrics, Anwar Ibrahim’s peaceful, cautious bravura may be Malaysia’s biggest advantage — refined, understated, upright, and staunchly firm in tempestuous times.
