Tokyo: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has congratulated Sanae Takaichi on her appointment as Prime Minister of Japan. He described her historic appointment as a defining moment in Japan’s political landscape, reflecting both her determination and the steady progress of democratic maturity in the country.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar expressed his congratulations to Her Excellency Sanae Takaichi on her appointment as Japan’s first woman Prime Minister. He acknowledged this as a landmark event in Japan’s political life, highlighting her resolve and the quiet evolution of Japan’s democracy. Anwar shared these sentiments in a statement on Facebook today.

Anwar emphasized the value Malaysia places on its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with Japan, which is built on trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to regional stability and sustainable growth. He also expressed his anticipation of welcoming Prime Minister Takaichi to Kuala Lumpur next week for the ASEAN-Japan Summit, where both countries aim to deepen their partnership.

The Prime Minister further extended his appreciation to former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, whose visit to Malaysia earlier this year, he noted, further strengthened the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Sanae Takaichi, 64, made history as Japan’s first woman prime minister after securing 237 votes in the 465-seat Lower House, thereby winning the parliamentary vote without the need for a runoff. Takaichi, who is also the President of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), was elected following the party’s agreement with the Japan Innovation Party to form a coalition government.