Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for an immediate end to the violence in Gaza and Sudan, urging the international community to adopt responsible measures that ensure lasting peace in both regions.
Speaking during a media briefing at State House, Nairobi, following his historic visit to Kenya, Anwar stressed that interventions must genuinely resolve conflicts rather than worsen them.
“Of course, the atrocities must end, and we support the initial initiative by President Trump of the United States. But we call for a comprehensive solution that will guarantee peace in the region,” he said.
On the Sudan crisis, Ibrahim cautioned against foreign involvement that could escalate tensions. “Although we are far away, we see that some external interventions do not resolve the crisis but instead create more divisions and killings,” he said, adding that Kenya’s efforts to mediate and promote stability in East Africa are commendable.
The Sudan civil war erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a power struggle rooted in the country's history of military coups and political instability.
The conflict has caused the world's largest displacement crisis, with millions forced from their homes, widespread humanitarian catastrophe, including famine, and numerous human rights violations. The crisis has devastated public services and exacerbated existing vulnerabilities to climate change.
The United States has imposed sanctions on the RSF and the Sudanese army leadership, and Sudan has brought a case against the UAE at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of supporting the RSF, with the United Nations warning of a significant funding gap for humanitarian aid efforts.
Ibrahim also highlighted the importance of Africa asserting its voice in global affairs. “Africa is no longer a colony. The continent has enormous economic potential and demographic strength, and it is unacceptable for Africa to remain excluded from international decision-making and trading arrangements,” he said.
Beyond international issues, the Malaysian leader lauded Kenya’s domestic achievements, particularly in housing and human capital development.
“I’ve seen the enormous strides you have made in the housing sector, which is most commendable. Your passion to provide housing for the people, particularly the poor, is remarkable,” he said.
He emphasized that Malaysia and Kenya share opportunities for collaboration in areas such as energy transition, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and high-tech research. University partnerships and strategic investments, he noted, would allow both nations to benefit from each other’s strengths.
“This is not just normal diplomatic engagement. Our friendship is built on trust and confidence, and we will do whatever is necessary to ensure that the decisions we make together are implemented for the benefit of our peoples,” Ibrahim said.
