Tokyo: The world is currently facing a shortage of leadership clarity rather than power, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today. Speaking at the Nikkei Forum on 'Navigating Strategic Uncertainty', Anwar urged renewed global cooperation to address mounting geopolitical challenges, stressing that effective leadership requires a clear sense of direction amid global uncertainty.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that the world does not lack power but clarity, with institutions needing reform and renewal rather than abandonment, cooperation preferred over division, and leadership requiring initiative rather than resignation. He expressed optimism that adhering to these principles could transform today's challenges into tomorrow's opportunities.
Anwar's address was the first item on the agenda of the 31st Nikkei Forum, under the theme 'Working Together for a More Resilient and Prosperous Asia'. He remarked that the current strategic uncertainty has been building over time, necessitating an examination of its root causes as many leaders remain bound by an outdated geopolitical mindset. In this mindset, realpolitik and hegemonic considerations continue to fuel the pursuit of power under the guise of strategic security.
He also highlighted ongoing global conflicts such as the tragedy in Gaza, tensions across West Asia, and the prolonged war in Ukraine, which underscore the fragility of peace and the limits of international consensus. Anwar mentioned that great-power rivalry in the region, particularly disputes in the South China Sea, threatens maritime stability and keeps Southeast Asia on edge.
Furthermore, Anwar addressed the multilayered threat posed by North Korea, citing its nuclear programme and significant conventional and cyber warfare capabilities. He urged leaders to confront injustice and adopt a proactive approach to peace and progress, drawing on historical examples from the Malay world and the Japanese archipelago, where prosperity was achieved through trade, dialogue, and cooperation.
Anwar noted that middle powers today face complex challenges, emphasizing the need for countries with credibility to be guided by clear principles to navigate the path ahead. He asserted that these nations are uniquely positioned to build bridges and consensus amid global divides.
On the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Anwar warned against allowing a few technological powers or private corporations to shape the future of AI, cautioning against new forms of 'digital colonization' or technological domination. He advocated for developing countries to have a stronger voice in global rule-making, emphasizing collaboration, cooperation, trust, and inclusive institutions as the solution.