THE world today requires leaders who embody compassion, uphold noble values, and prioritise humanity in the face of mounting global challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainty, and geopolitical tensions, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
“A true leader must reject oppression and colonialism while championing human rights and dignity, regardless of background,” Anwar stated in an exclusive interview with Chinese state media outlet CGTN.
“We must have leaders with compassion, who understand and believe in good values, who prioritise the interests of all humanity, reject oppression and colonisation, and safeguard the welfare of the people,” he said.
During the interview, Anwar also praised Chinese President Xi Jinping for his leadership, describing it as extraordinary in advancing policies rooted in public well-being.
“I don’t say this simply because I happen to be there. You can see it through the actions and policies he advocates,” Anwar remarked.
“We can no longer tolerate the arrogance of power, colonisation, exploitation, and man’s inhumanity to man,” he added.
Anwar further described Xi as a highly charismatic global leader.
“He leads a country with vast resources, remarkable economic growth and strong military power… and in our meeting, he treated us — a rising but still modest nation — with trust and respect,” said Anwar.
“In my view, this is something the world, not just the people of China, should know — that he is a humble leader, willing to listen and engage,” he said.
Kuantan Port as a cornerstone in Malaysia’s twin-city programme with China
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister hails the expansion at the Kuantan port as a strategic move to boost Malaysia-China trade.
The Port is set to emerge as a vital hub for trade with China and neighbouring coastal regions of Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said in the interview with CGTN.
He noted that the port’s expansion is a timely move, particularly given that much of Malaysia’s development has historically focused on the west coast.
"Yes, it needs to be expanded. I think it is wise because the traditional ports are already spending," he said, referring to rising capacity pressures at major facilities such as Port Klang.
Anwar described Kuantan Port as a cornerstone in Malaysia’s twin-city programme with China, and a key element in repositioning the east coast as a new national growth corridor.
He highlighted Malaysia’s growing strength in maritime logistics, with Port Klang now ranked among the world’s top 10 ports and two other national ports steadily climbing global rankings.
"For Malaysia, a relatively small country, this is a remarkable feat," he added.
According to Anwar, the expansion of Kuantan Port could unlock substantial economic potential in an area that had long been sidelined, transforming it into a thriving logistics and industrial centre.
On 10 June 2024, Kuantan Port signed a strategic agreement with Malaysian Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) to enhance freight transport connectivity via the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL). The partnership includes a spur line that will link directly to the port, enabling cargo to move more efficiently between Malaysia’s east and west coasts by rail rather than road.
The integration is expected to significantly improve logistics flow, strengthen regional connectivity, and enhance Malaysia’s position as a trade gateway within ASEAN and beyond. - September 15, 2025
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