Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia's foremost responsibility is to strengthen governance at home, stressing that meaningful contributions to global affairs must begin with domestic reform. Speaking during a question-and-answer session at the 39th Asia-Pacific Roundtable here today, Anwar outlined his government's priorities, including improving governance, eradicating corruption, reducing inequality, and ensuring every citizen has access to quality education and healthcare.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that while Malaysia would continue taking principled positions on international issues, its immediate focus remained on building a better nation. He highlighted the importance of demonstrating that a Muslim-majority country could uphold democratic values, moderation, and inclusivity. Anwar expressed his commitment to effecting change and reform in Malaysia, advocating for the rights of all citizens to basic education and health.

Anwar also addressed global divisions, cautioning against viewing them as a 'clash of civilisations'. He argued that many conflicts stem from misunderstanding and prejudice. Quoting the late Palestinian-American scholar Edward Said, the Prime Minister described many international tensions as a 'clash of ignorance', pointing out that judgments are often formed without genuine understanding.

Malaysia's MADANI framework, as explained by Anwar, places equal emphasis on technological advancement and human values. This framework encourages greater appreciation among people of different races, religions, and cultures. Referring to the Quranic concept of 'li ta'arafu', Anwar advocated for societies to strive not merely to tolerate one another but to understand and appreciate their differences. He stressed that such an approach is particularly important for a multiracial and multireligious country like Malaysia.