PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, currently on an official visit to Ethiopia, was escorted on a tour of the nation’s historic Adwa Victory Memorial on the second day of his three-day visit to the Horn of Africa.
His arrival at the museum was greeted by Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Gedion Timothewos, and the Mayor of Addis Ababa, Adanech Abiebie.
Before entering the museum, Anwar inspected a ceremonial guard of honour at Adwa Square, underscoring the symbolic significance of the site.
The museum commemorates the pivotal Battle of Adwa, fought on 1 March 1896 between the Ethiopian Empire, led by Emperor Menelik II, and Italian forces under General Oreste Baratieri.
The Ethiopian victory preserved the country’s sovereignty and marked Ethiopia as the only African nation to successfully resist European colonisation during the Scramble for Africa.
This triumph not only safeguarded national independence but also inspired anti-colonial movements across the continent, remaining a lasting emblem of African resilience and pride.
“Visiting this museum was truly remarkable. It preserves a vast array of historical artefacts and artworks that vividly recount the courage, dignity, and unwavering resolve of the Ethiopian people in the face of Italian imperialist aggression,” Anwar said.
He described the memorial as more than a tribute to military success, saying: “It is a strong symbol of Africa’s rejection of imperialism.
The victory at Adwa is a clear example that inspired confidence and strength for subsequent independence movements throughout the continent.”
Accompanying Anwar on the visit were Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Foreign Ministry Chief Secretary Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin, and Malaysia’s Chargé d’Affaires to Ethiopia Mohd Afandi Abu Bakar.
The Prime Minister’s trip marks his first official visit to Ethiopia and follows a reciprocal visit by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Malaysia in October last year.
The tour celebrates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Ethiopia, formally established in January 1965.
Anwar paid tribute to Ethiopia’s dedication to preserving its history, expressing his admiration for the nation’s commitment to ensuring that its heritage and cultural memory remain accessible and respected worldwide.
“I salute Ethiopia for its steadfast efforts in promoting historical awareness and cultural education, which serve as a beacon for the entire world,” he added.
During the first eleven months of 2025 alone, the Adwa Victory Memorial received more than 189,000 local and international visitors, highlighting its enduring significance as both a cultural landmark and a testament to Ethiopia’s historic resistance against colonialism. - November 19, 2025
