KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has climbed to 10th place in The World's 500 Most Influential Muslims 2026 edition, published by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre (RISSC) under the Royal Aal al-Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought, Amman, Jordan.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, was previously ranked 15th in 2025 and 17th in 2024, reported Astro Awani.
The report highlights his long journey from his student days at Universiti Malaya to his appointment as Malaysia's 10th Prime Minister in November 2022.
He is described as a figure who went through various political challenges, including periods of imprisonment, removal from office and a prolonged struggle as opposition leader before returning to lead the nation's administration.
The publication also cited Anwar's role in easing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia following border clashes, which helped strengthen Malaysia's image as a regional peacemaker.
"Anwar helped build trust between Bangkok and Phnom Penh, thereby strengthening Malaysia's image as a constructive peace mediator in South-East Asia," according to the report.
On the issue of genocide in Gaza, Anwar is known as a leader who vocally champions Palestinian rights and condemns the atrocities of the Zionist regime.
He also openly criticised Meta for deleting condolence posts for slain Hamas leaders, describing the action as cowardly and calling on the company not to bow to Israeli pressure.
This listing recognises Anwar's leadership in championing social justice, progressive Islamic governance and commitment to regional peace and Muslim solidarity at the global level.
The top spot in the 2026 edition goes to Qatar's Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is also listed at 15th position.
