Anwar Ibrahim Ranked 13th in The World's 500 Most Influential Muslims

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has been ranked 13th in the 2027 edition of The Muslim 500: The World’s 500 Most Influential Muslims, published by the Jordan-based Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre (RISSC). This annual report, which evaluates the influence of Muslim leaders worldwide, noted Anwar's significant role in advocating for Palestinian rights and his diplomatic initiatives in Southeast Asia.

“Anwar highlighted the energy transition as a key pillar of Malaysia’s development agenda.”The Muslim 500 report

Since assuming office as Malaysia’s 10th Prime Minister in November 2022, Anwar has led a unity government under the Pakatan Harapan coalition. His administration has focused on a digital and economic transition strategy encapsulated in his Malaysia Madani framework, which prioritizes advancements in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, data centers, quantum computing, and energy transition. The report highlighted that Anwar emphasized the energy transition as a crucial aspect of Malaysia's development agenda, linking it directly to the expansion of high-tech infrastructure sectors.

On the regional front, Anwar's diplomatic efforts have been recognized, particularly his role as a peace broker between Thailand and Cambodia. Following border clashes in July 2025, he hosted talks between the two countries’ leaders in Putrajaya, which helped secure a ceasefire and reinforced Malaysia’s image as a constructive mediator in Southeast Asia.

“Anwar helped build trust between Bangkok and Phnom Penh, reinforcing Malaysia’s image as a constructive peace broker in Southeast Asia.”The Muslim 500 report

Furthermore, Anwar has been acknowledged for his outspoken stance on the Palestinian cause. His administration has maintained a firm position on supporting humanitarian access in Gaza and civilian protection. Notably, Anwar announced in the Malaysian Parliament that Malaysia is spearheading an international coalition drafting a resolution aimed at expelling Israel from the United Nations, reiterating Malaysia’s permanent non-recognition of Israel.

“Malaysia is spearheading a core international coalition drafting a formal resolution to expel Israel from the United Nations.”The Muslim 500 report

Despite facing criticism from Western nations for his meetings with Hamas officials, including its late leader Ismail Haniyeh, Anwar has defended Malaysia's sovereign right to determine its foreign policy. The publication underscored that Anwar's consistent advocacy for Palestinian rights has significantly contributed to his recognition in the global Muslim community.