Melaka: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today rebuked certain quarters for making excessive remarks regarding the Gaza peace plan proposed by United States (US) President Donald Trump. He said this included criticisms of the US’s involvement in the negotiations, which he described as unhelpful to resolving the conflict between Hamas and Israel.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar said he had spoken with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi yesterday to express Malaysia’s appreciation for Egypt’s commitment, along with other Arab nations including Trkiye, in pushing to stop Israel’s bombings and attacks on Gaza. ‘In my discussion with him (El-Sisi), my concern was that the West Bank might come under attack again, and El-Sisi said that is why Muslim countries must continue to act as one team. Although we have reservations and do not agree with all 20 points in the peace plan, I also listened to other views, including from Hamas, which is negotiating with Israel.’

Anwar emphasized that Malaysia seeks to contribute positively to the peace process, acknowledging the complexities on the ground where Hamas is engaged in conflict. He also highlighted El-Sisi’s agreement to raise issues not included in Trump’s 20-point peace proposal during a conference scheduled for November. Anwar further requested that Malaysian volunteers be allowed to enter Gaza to provide aid, receiving assurance from the Egyptian President.

The peace plan negotiations have seen Egypt hosting an international summit at Sharm el-Sheikh, co-chaired by El-Sisi and Trump. Trump previously announced that Israel and Hamas had agreed to the first phase of the Gaza peace plan he unveiled on Sept 29, which includes a ceasefire, the release of Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinian detainees, and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

Anwar also reached out to Afghanistan’s Acting Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss the escalating tensions between their countries. Despite criticism from some members of Parliament, Anwar defended his communication efforts, citing past successes in easing conflicts.

Additionally, Anwar addressed criticisms from the opposition regarding government policies, particularly in restoring heritage buildings like Carcosa Seri Negara in Kuala Lumpur. During the tabling of Budget 2026, it was announced that Khazanah Nasional Bhd has allocated RM600 million for the restoration of this iconic building.