PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic) has undergone surgery to treat an abdominal hernia and is now under medical observation.
Anwar, who was diagnosed with a paraumbilical hernia, underwent an elective laparoscopic surgical procedure on his 79th birthday, the Prime Minister’s medical team chief Datuk Dr Asri Ranga Abdullah Ramaiah said.
“The procedure was carried out smoothly by a team of medical specialists.
“He is currently undergoing physiotherapy treatment and remains under close monitoring by the medical team,” Asri said in a statement posted on Anwar’s Facebook account yesterday.
An earlier statement from the Prime Minister’s Office yesterday revealed that Anwar was undergoing medical examinations and procedures as prescribed by his medical team. That statement did not disclose details but said Anwar was expected to remain under medical observation for at least two days.
Even as the Prime Minister recovers, birthday wishes and well-wishes for his recovery flooded social media from government employees and the public.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi called on all Malaysians to pray for Anwar’s speedy recovery.
He expressed confidence that Anwar would only need a short rest before resuming his duties, adding that the Prime Minister had asked him to chair Cabinet meetings in the interim.
“Let’s pray that his recovery will provide him with the comfort and strength to continue serving the country and the people,” Ahmad Zahid told reporters after officiating the launch of the 2026-2035 National Social Determinants Of Health Strategic Plan for Orang Asli.
Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar also wished Anwar a happy birthday and good health.
In a Facebook post, he prayed that Anwar would always be blessed with good health, strength and wisdom in leading the country.
“We in the civil service will continue to steadfastly support the aspirations and reform agenda of the public service for the people and the country,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s Office also conveyed similar birthday wishes through a video on Facebook.
“Efforts continue, the trust is fulfilled, and in Allah SWT, we place our trust,” it posted.
The Malaysia Madani Facebook page also prayed for the Prime Minister’s well-being.
“Happy birthday to YAB PMX.
“May you continue to be blessed with the strength to contribute to and work tirelessly for the country and the nation,” it shared yesterday.
