KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today held a critical pre-council meeting with the Conference of Rulers at Istana Negara, sharing updates on Malaysia’s preparations for the 47th ASEAN Summit, the upcoming Budget 2026, and major international diplomatic developments.
Among the key issues discussed was an invitation extended to former U.S. President Donald Trump to visit Malaysia in conjunction with the ASEAN Summit. Anwar also presented Malaysia’s official stance on Trump’s proposed Gaza peace initiative — a matter drawing significant global attention due to the humanitarian crisis in the region.
“This is part of the routine pre-council briefing for the Rulers. We touched on developments like the Trump visit, major policies, and Budget 2026,” Anwar told reporters after officiating the ASEAN Conference on Future-Ready Public Service.
Earlier in the day, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul confirmed that Anwar’s absence from the scheduled Minister’s Question Time (MQT) in Parliament was due to his urgent attendance at the palace.
The 47th ASEAN Summit, scheduled for October 26–28 in Kuala Lumpur, is poised to be the largest gathering since ASEAN’s formation in 1976 — a momentous milestone for the regional bloc. As Malaysia plays host, all eyes are on how the nation balances diplomacy, regional leadership, and domestic challenges.
In a crucial fiscal move, Anwar, who also holds the portfolio of Finance Minister, will table Budget 2026 this Friday, outlining economic directions amid rising global uncertainties and local expectations.
In times of change and growing complexity, leadership isn’t just about policies—it’s about connection, transparency, and vision. As Malaysia steps into the spotlight of regional diplomacy and national planning, the hope is that every voice, every concern, and every citizen’s future is given the place it deserves.
Because behind every summit, every budget, and every handshake between leaders—there’s a story of the people who make up the heart of the nation.
