Navigating Diplomatic Waters: Anwar Ibrahim's Influence on Southeast Asia

Tue Oct 28 2025 21:57:12 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emerges as a pivotal player in regional diplomacy, recently orchestrating a significant tariff reduction deal with the U.S. amid ongoing political and economic challenges.

Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysia's Prime Minister, has made headlines for both his diplomatic engagements and domestic challenges. Recently, he struck a deal with U.S. President Donald Trump to reduce tariffs on Malaysian exports, while also facilitating a fragile ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. However, Anwar faces criticism at home for rising living costs and the need for deeper economic reforms, as he balances international relations with domestic demands.

I was in prison but you almost got there, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim joked to US President Donald Trump as the cameras rolled. It was a dicey joke - one he quickly moved on from given Trump's less-than amused demeanour - but also arguably one only a veteran politician basking in his recent wins would dare make.

He had just signed a deal with Trump to lower tariffs on Malaysian exports to the US from 24% to 19%. Although many other details remain unclear, any assurance that levies will not rise further is welcome amid all the uncertainty.

Most importantly, Anwar secured Trump's attendance at a regional summit—even as its relevance has been questioned. The U.S. president was at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting solely to preside over a highly publicized peace deal between Thailand and Cambodia, a feat orchestrated by Anwar. He also brokered a fragile ceasefire between the two nations after deadly border clashes earlier this year—intervening after Trump threatened tariffs if the fighting didn't cease.

Some have deemed it a diplomatic victory for Malaysia, while others assert Anwar was merely in the right place at the right time. This year marked a turning point as the Malaysian PM's turn to lead ASEAN arrived after 25 years of persistent political maneuvering, including two prison stints.

Yet, the tone within Malaysia is mixed; while Anwar has certainly brought a measure of stability to a nation that cycled through three prime ministers between 2020 and 2021, economic grievances persist. Protesters took to the streets over rising costs of living, with voices demanding Anwar’s resignation amid claims that he has not sufficiently addressed economic reforms.

Anwar's administration is now under scrutiny, balancing between high-stakes international diplomacy and pressing domestic needs, while also facing accusations of favoritism and environmental lapses regarding Islamic values. The Prime Minister’s tenure reflects not only individual perseverance but also the broader currents affecting Malaysia's political landscape.