PM Anwar Ibrahim deepens Japan partnership while managing cabinet rifts

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim received Yasushi Kudo, president of the Japanese think‑tank The Genron NPO, in a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening Malaysia‑Japan relations. The talks covered the Asia Leaders Roundtable and reaffirmed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with Anwar thanking the Japanese government for its warm hospitality during his June state visit. Anwar also accepted an invitation to deliver a video message at the Tokyo Conference 2026 and to attend the Tokyo Conference 2027, underscoring continued bilateral cooperation.

A day later, Anwar and Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi appeared relaxed at a cabinet meeting, smiling despite escalating tensions between the Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN) coalitions over the Negeri Sembilan state election campaign. The meeting followed a recent remark by Zahid that Anwar could dismiss eight BN ministers, and Anwar’s response that ministers attacking colleagues should step down. Anwar’s Facebook post included a poem urging unity. The current coalition includes 151 MPs from PH, BN, Gabungan Parti Sarawak, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah and independents.