Anwar Ibrahim

Anwar bin Ibrahim (born August 10, 1947) is a prominent Malaysian politician, economist, and human rights advocate who became the 10th Prime Minister of Malaysia in November 2022. Born in Penang, Anwar initially rose through the ranks of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), serving as Minister of Finance under Mahathir Mohamad and eventually becoming Deputy Prime Minister in 1993. However, his relationship with Mahathir deteriorated after he criticized government policies and cronyism, leading to his dramatic fall from power in 1998. He was imprisoned on disputed sodomy and corruption charges widely believed to be politically motivated, becoming a symbol of resistance against authoritarian governance. During his imprisonment and subsequent years in opposition politics, Anwar emerged as a leading voice for democratic reform and founded or led multiple political movements, including the People's Justice Party (PKR). After his release and years of political struggle, he finally ascended to the premiership following the 2022 general election. His journey from establishment insider to political prisoner to reformist leader has made him a significant figure in modern Malaysian politics and a symbol of democratic struggle in Southeast Asia. Anwar's administration has focused on anti-corruption measures and institutional reform.