MALAYSIA has been invited to play a leading role in the upcoming Gaza Reconstruction Conference, with Egypt proposing that Kuala Lumpur not only participate but also co-organise the international forum, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed at the conclusion of his working visit to South Africa.
Bernama cited Anwar saying today that Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly conveyed the greetings of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi alongside the invitation, which was discussed during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg.
“Egypt expressed its wish for Malaysia to attend the Gaza Reconstruction Conference and also to co-host it. I informed him that I would first obtain detailed information from the Foreign Ministry before making a final decision,” Anwar said, emphasising that Putrajaya will review the proposal carefully before committing.
The Prime Minister explained that the conference aims to secure approval from Arab, Muslim, American, and other countries to ensure that the first phase of Gaza’s reconstruction is executed comprehensively.
Malaysia has expressed agreement with the first phase of development proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, but Anwar stressed the need for a “more comprehensive and holistic” approach, consistent with Malaysia’s policy.
Also present during the briefing were Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
In addition to discussions on Gaza, Anwar met with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who spoke positively about Petronas’ operations in Brazil and expressed interest in expanding the state-owned company’s activities.
“Lula was proud of Petronas’ achievements there and expressed interest in expanding its operations,” the Prime Minister said.
This marks Anwar’s second participation in the G20 Leaders’ Summit as a guest country, having first attended the event in Brazil last year.
This year’s invitation was extended by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, recognising Malaysia’s role as ASEAN Chair for 2025.
Following the summit in Johannesburg, Anwar will continue his three-country African tour, travelling next to Nairobi, Kenya, to further strengthen bilateral and regional ties. - November 23, 2025
