Envoys keen to work with new PM

KUALA LUMPUR: As congratulations streamed in from world leaders to Malaysia’s new Prime Minister, foreign missions here joined in the chorus of support by saying they were eager to work closely with Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Singapore High Commissioner Vanu Gopala Menon, who is the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, said Anwar was a familiar figure to both the diplomatic community and Singapore.

“I wish him every success as he steers Malaysia through these challenging times. Malaysia’s stability and success will benefit not only all Malaysians but also the entire region. We look forward to a constructive engagement with Anwar and his administration,” he said.

US Ambassador Brian McFeeters was also among the first to express his felicitations.

“The US Embassy looks forward to continuing to strengthen the US-Malaysia strategic partnership under your leadership,” he tweeted.

British High Commissioner Charles Hay said he found it inspiring to see the high voter turnout for GE15.

“Especially with so many young people voting for the first time, it was truly democracy in action. The United Kingdom and Malaysia share long-standing relations which have flourished into a modern partnership.

“The UK government is looking forward to working with Anwar and the Malaysian government in enhancing trade, strengthening bilateral cooperation and joining hands in addressing global challenges like security and climate change,” he added.

Russian Ambassador Naiyl Latypov said he was confident that under Anwar’s governance, Malaysia will continue its sustained socio-economic development.

“I believe that we will see a further consolidation of impressive successes in improving the lives of the Malaysian people and strengthening the national economy that have been achieved in recent years.

“We count on maintaining friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation between Russia and Malaysia in the practical areas based on the rich and long-standing history of our relations,” he added.

Brazilian Ambassador Ary Quintella said his country had also just concluded its general election.

“In both cases, the elections happened in a peaceful and democratic manner, as was to be expected,” he said.

“I’ve had the opportunity to meet Anwar a few times since arriving in Malaysia. In all circumstances, I always wish Malaysians much happiness,” he added.

Australia’s High Commissioner to Malaysia Dr Justin Lee tweeted: “Tahniah to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on becoming Malaysia’s 10th Prime Minister! Australia and Malaysia are the closest of friends.

“The Australian High Commission looks forward to working with your team under our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”

Austrian Ambassador Andreas Launer said Malaysia and Austria marked 60 years of diplomatic relations this year.

“I would be pleased if the Austrian Embassy could assist your government to further deepen our political, economic and cultural cooperation,” he said in a letter to Anwar.

Japanese Ambassador Takahashi Katsuhiko said he hopes ties between both countries would continue to flourish.

“I sincerely hope that the new government will lead Malaysia in unity and further promote Japan-Malaysia relations,” he added.

The world leaders who congratulated the Pakatan Harapan chairman included President Joko Widodo of Indonesia and Turkiye president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with both phoning Anwar.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken were also among those who wished Anwar well over his success.