Opinion: Anwar's domestic charm might be waning, but it is shining internationally

Opinion: Anwar's domestic charm might be waning, but it is shining internationally


4 Aug 2025 • 6:00 PM MYT


TheRealNehruism
Writer. Seeker. Teacher

Image credit: East Asia Forum / The Malaysia Press / Agenzianova / Malay Mail


Say what you will about Anwar Ibrahim’s domestic performance—but when it comes to the international arena, our guy is absolutely rocking it in the world stage.


Just this past April, Chinese President Xi Jinping—who rarely leaves China—chose Malaysia as one of only three countries to visit, alongside Vietnam and Cambodia. Now, bear in mind: both Cambodia and Vietnam have deep-rooted communist histories. Vietnam remains a communist state, while Cambodia, though no longer officially communist, is still heavily influenced by it.


In that context, Malaysia stands out like a sore thumb—or a shining star, depending on how you look at it. Among the three, Malaysia is the only one with no communist past, and yet, it made Xi Jinping’s ultra-selective itinerary. That’s no accident. That’s a diplomatic scoop—and it happened under Anwar’s watch.


Let’s be honest: would Xi have bothered with Malaysia if Muhyiddin Yassin or Ismail Sabri were still running the show? Highly doubtful. Xi’s visit likely reflects China’s growing respect for Anwar as a statesman—not just within ASEAN, but possibly the wider Muslim world as well.


Then, just a month later, Anwar made headlines again—this time in Moscow. His meeting with President Vladimir Putin wasn’t just protocol; it had the air of something more personal. Putin, widely seen as one of the most dominant and “alpha” figures in global politics, treated Anwar not just as a leader—but as a peer. Maybe even a “bro.” The proof? That now-viral “second wife” joke, a ribbing only reserved for those in your inner circle.


Their rapport was so warm that Putin even extended an invitation to Malaysia’s Agong, who is now scheduled to visit Russia next week. It is a historic visit - the first time a Malaysian monarch will be officially visiting Russia. Think about that: in the midst of global tensions, Malaysia is being courted by major powers from both East and West.


And speaking of the West—guess who’s coming to KL this October?


None other than the global headline machine himself, U.S. President Donald Trump.


Despite their rocky start—Trump reportedly had refused to take Anwar’s call since his inauguration—things seem to have turned around. The two leaders recently played a key role in brokering a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, and it seems that thawed whatever frost was in the air. Anwar even managed to negotiate a reduction in American tariffs on Malaysia, bringing them down from 25% to 19%.



Trump’s upcoming visit for the ASEAN Summit is the cherry on top. You don’t get that kind of access unless you’re someone they want to be seen with.


Now, here’s the sobering question we must all ask: Would any of this international prestige be possible if Anwar wasn’t our Prime Minister?


I highly doubt Muhyiddin or Ismail Sabri could pull it off. Even Najib, with all his charm and connections, might have struggled to get this level of global recognition.


So yes, while frustrations are mounting at home—cost of living pressures, racial and religious tensions, and stalled reforms—one must ask: if not Anwar, then who?


Even if Anwar is failing domestically, it is not like the opposition has a figure that can be counted to succeed where Anwar failed.


And while it is debatable if the opposition has anyone who can supersede Anwar domestically, what is unquestionable that it has no one that comes close to rival the prestige that Anwar can bring the country in the international arena.



It’s easy to critique, harder to offer alternatives. The opposition talks a big game, but until they present someone who can supersede Anwar domestically and match Anwar’s global credibility, they’re not offering the public a serious choice.


Bottom line? Anwar may be under fire at home, but on the world stage, he’s making Malaysia matter again. And that counts for something.


Until a viable alternative emerges, we might just be better off sticking with the man who, despite his flaws, is putting us back on the global map.