S2E33: Plain sailing for PM Anwar on a global stage, but rough ride at home

Jun 26, 2025

52:35

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On international platforms, he earns praise but faces rising scepticism domestically.

Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus.

For our June episode, ST’s Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh and host Tan Tam Mei return to be joined by Ariel Tan, a senior fellow at RSIS, as they unpack Malaysia’s showing at global forums.

From hosting a landmark Asean Summit and joining BRICS, his diplomatic engagements with leaders from China, Russia, and the Middle East, PM Anwar has advanced Malaysia on the world stage.

But domestically, challenges are mounting. With talk of nepotism and several movements within the unity government, what could come next?

How will this reshape the political field as the country inches closer to its 16th General Election that must be held by early 2028?

Highlights (click/tap above):

6:58 Malaysia as Asean chair and PM Anwar’s showing

9:44 How can PM Anwar and Asean effect change, especially in Myanmar?

14:20 Translating Malaysia’s international appearance for the domestic audience

18:20 Malaysia’s diplomatic balancing act between the US and China

23:09 Nurul Izzah’s rise to PKR No.2 post, Rafizi Ramli’s exit from Cabinet

31:08 Timing, motivations and implications: Why Tengku Zafrul Aziz is joining the PKR

41:50 Quelling Umno’s upset; what to expect at the next Cabinet reshuffle, moves ahead of next general election

47:08 News nugget from Malaysia: Penang’s new char kway teow champion

Malaysia’s showing at Asean - https://str.sg/Gp5Q