By Prof Dato’ Seri Ir Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took office as the Prime Minister in November 2022 amidst a backdrop of increasing economic difficulties, in a country eager for change and progress. On 23 November 2024, it marked two years of his leadership. The past two years under his leadership have marked an unprecedented transformation for Malaysia, with correct and forward-looking priorities and leadership on economic stability, societal progress, social justice, inclusive modernisation and an elevated international role, presence and relations.

Anwar’s leadership has stood out in two main components, in leading the financial strategic management of the nation’s coffers and in battling corruption and prioritising good governance and ethical leadership and, secondly, in prioritising progressive economic and societal development with a people-centred approach.

He addressed challenges such as inflation and stagnant wages while also addressing inefficiencies, wastages and corruption directly. His focus on responsibility and anti-corruption actions emphasised wealth distribution and in reforming societal inequalities and promoting social justice as well as a modernisation concept that is pillared on humanity, integrity, ethics, global values, civilisational progress and morality.

The 2025 Budget was an achievement for his leadership era as it focused on subsidies tailored to people’s needs and emphasised the importance of affordable housing and investments in key critical sectors of the future including the digital economy, energy transition, Artificial Intelligence and high-technology manufacturing, within the framework of a more sustainable and inclusive economy model.

Anwar strategically built alliances with trading allies, created a strengthened fallback capacity, extended the diversification efforts, elevated the standing and recognition of Malaysia at the global level, and strengthened economic and trade infrastructures.

He also utilised Malaysia’s advantageous location in Southeast Asia to attract foreign investment interest in sectors like technology and green energy, and further strengthened Malaysia’s status as a middle power and empowered the common returns of a solidified regional focus on economic and geopolitical advancement with strategic synergy and expansion of power with key regions and countries including BRICS, the Global South and other trade and economic blocs, while maintaining the concept of key non-alignment and a peaceful player in regional and global prosperity.

Building unity, effective governance and higher education impact

Anwar’s leadership approach focuses on inclusivity and reform, and this is highly appreciated by a range of people in Malaysia. His coalition government that spans factions in the country serves as a unifying force following a period of turbulent politics. This strategy not only boosts trust within the nation but also garners support from investors and global allies who value a government dedicated to maintaining political stability and consistent policy making.

He focused on enhancing educational and social welfare programmes, recognising the impact of knowledge empowerment. This has been at the forefront of his administration’s agenda with an emphasis on ensuring fair educational opportunities for all. The administration has directed resources towards schools in neglected regions while also spearheading programmes to widen access to higher education.

This transformative impact and track record has contributed to a new direction and hope for the nation in the future, and Universiti Malaya shares the same purpose and vision in advancing the nation with progressive reform and building institutional resilience and future driven changes with bold and empowering new ideas and strategic aspirations.

The new focus on critical sectors’ advancement spearheaded by Anwar, especially the focus on critical minerals, digital economy, Artificial Intelligence, new energy transition and an inclusive and progressive societal and national development has also been part of Universiti Malaya’s new key thrust areas of focus in contributing towards not only the national growth agenda but being part of the global agenda in providing meaningful solutions to the challenges of tomorrow.

In building a generation of talented human capital and new frontiers of cutting-edge research and creation of solutions to global challenges, Universiti Malaya is proud to share the same vision of new progressive empowerment for the nation and the world, in line with Anwar’s Madani vision.

Having produced the nation’s top leaders and key figures, including six Prime Ministers involving Anwar himself, Universiti Malaya is an ongoing reform and transformation agenda in continuing to be at the forefront of the nation’s hope in propelling key fundamental growth and development for the nation and civilizational progress, being the nation’s premier university.

The support by Anwar and his administration in this sector is critical, and the future trajectory of the nation is very much dependable on the positive returns on investments in key research, knowledge and human capital outcome from the new demographics and the combined resources and strength from our higher education arena, where Universiti Malaya continues to lead.

The higher education sector has been given a huge boost, with the recognition of quality human capital advancement being given the priority in advancing the nation and providing the main factor for Malaysia to achieve high-income nation status. The Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, has been instrumental in spearheading this renewed focus and approach by Anwar in transforming the higher education sector since he assumed his position.

With his strategic advancement through his emphasis on reforming the higher education landscape, he has created new frontiers in advancing a comprehensive transformation of the higher education arena in the country.

He introduced the Five Pillars strategy:

1. Provision of the nation's best talents.

2. Strengthening the research and innovation ecosystem.

3. Implementing a new approach to knowledge transfer and sharing.

4. Internationalisation of higher education.

5. Enhancing the enabling ecosystem.

This is critical in ensuring the best returns to the country in terms of progressive knowledge creation, key research impact and providing new solutions to national and global challenges.

The Madani administration’s efforts to tackle income inequality and poverty in Malaysia showcase the government’s dedication to empowering marginalised communities through initiatives like expanding microcredit programmes and providing aid to low-income households.

The emphasis on upholding workers’ rights through measures like adjusting wage rates, the first salary hike for civil servants in years and ensuring worker protections highlight the administration’s vision for an equitable society and in raising household income in Malaysia.

Anwar’s reputation as a globally-recognised figure has boosted Malaysia’s standing. In gatherings such as ASEAN, APEC and the United Nations, he has actively promoted peace, fairness and global equality and justice in the global governing system, and fostered collaboration among nations. His skill in building relationships with both Eastern and Western nations while upholding Malaysia’s neutral position has established the country as a valued mediator in worldwide diplomacy.

Anwar has led Malaysia to stand firm on matters by supporting the rights of the underprivileged, especially the plight of the Palestinians and the cause of Gaza which has seen him taking a very vocal stance in calling for an end to the war crimes and sufferings there.

Throughout his two years in office, it has not been easy, especially during political firestorms. However, he has handled them well, including disagreements within the unity government and uncertainties in the global economy. His administration has successfully established a strong groundwork for the country’s future.

Anwar’s clear vision for a fair Malaysia that unites its people is gradually coming to fruition. This progress is fostering trust and optimism among Malaysians while also establishing a new standard for leadership, within the region.

The progress Malaysia is experiencing under his leadership underscores that the Malaysia Madani initiative is not merely a rhetoric; rather it symbolises a path towards revitalising the nation through good governance and ethical values.

Anwar’s focus on unity and reform has sparked optimism. He charted a path for Malaysia’s lasting prosperity and resilience.

New economic transition

During Anwar’s leadership, there has been an increase in investments in Malaysia, especially in sectors like technology, manufacturing and renewable energy. By implementing strategies such as the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, the National Semiconductor Strategy and establishing partnerships with tech companies on a global scale, Malaysia has solidified its position as a hub for valuable industries of the future.

In 2024, the country saw an influx of foreign direct investment (FDI), resulting in the creation of tens of thousands of job opportunities and bolstered growth within local businesses.

The administration has expanded Malaysia’s foundation by decreasing its dependence on conventional commodities like oil and palm oil products. The transition to the economy has been led by initiatives such as the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and has propelled the expansion of e commerce financial technology (fintech) and Artificial Intelligence sectors. These strategies have enabled Malaysia to navigate through instabilities and enhance its resilience for the future.

Empowerment of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is driving Malaysia’s economy forward. Initiatives such as increased support for loans and grants for digitalisation efforts alongside tax breaks have empowered SME owners to upgrade their operations and stay competitive internationally, with an increase of job opportunities and fostering growth.

Digital connectivity is enhanced, while also enhancing energy-efficiency initiatives, like energy projects and eco-friendly public structures to promote sustainable development goals and boost economic growth in the region.

Eliminating poverty and bridging the gap in income and opportunities

The Madani Economic Plan was introduced in the middle of 2023 with the aim of reducing poverty and narrowing the wealth disparity gap.

Anwar’s administration bolstered financial support initiatives such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), extended healthcare assistance programmes and enforced tax regulations in order to promote better distribution of wealth.

These actions have brought families out of poverty and fostered a more just society. Anwar has effectively managed policy to control inflation despite challenges in key economic indicators and with rising inflation.

Under his leadership, measures were implemented to provide subsidies for crucial commodities such as fuel and essential food items like rice and cooking oil, benefiting the less-affluent segments of society amidst the surge in living expenses.

The administration also focused on enhancing tax adherence and curbing inefficiencies in governmental expenditures, leading to a substantial enhancement in Malaysia’s financial well-being by reducing the deficit to its minimum point in recent years.

The path forward

Anwar’s inclusive and reform-oriented leadership approach has been much awaited and well received.

His leadership has established a strong groundwork for the future of Malaysia. His aspiration for a flourishing, united and fair Malaysia is gradually becoming a reality in instilling trust among Malaysians and to provide a new sense of hope and optimism.

It serves as an example of how integrity and inclusivity combined with a strategic vision can lead to significant changes. Under his guidance and the implementation of the ‘Malaysia Madani’ agenda in Malaysia’s development journey, it signifies more than a catchphrase – it symbolises a plan for national revitalisation and underscores the impact of progressive governance.

Anwar Ibrahim’s focus on growth and unity is inspiring hope and steering Malaysia towards long-lasting prosperity with resilience. A new dawn of hope will require consistent efforts and momentum, and the best is yet to come.

-- BERNAMA

Prof Dato’ Seri Ir Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman is the Vice Chancellor of Universiti Malaya & Fellow, Academy of Sciences Malaysia.