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Anwar insists ties with palace remain strong amid Najib controversy

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has moved to quash suggestions of a rift with the monarchy, dismissing claims that his government acted against the king's wishes in its handling of former premier Najib Razak's recent detention.

LSN Malaysia · 12 November 2026

Anwar insists ties with palace remain strong amid Najib controversy

Anwar Ibrahim sought to reassure the public on Monday that his administration maintains a robust relationship with the palace, rejecting characterizations that the government had overstepped constitutional boundaries in managing the high-profile case involving Najib Razak.

The prime minister's comments come amid reports questioning whether the government's actions aligned with royal preferences. Anwar was emphatic in countering these suggestions, stating that his administration continues to operate within proper channels of consultation with the monarchy.

The controversy centers on the government's treatment of Najib, the former prime minister who had been placed under house arrest as part of ongoing legal proceedings stemming from investigations into alleged financial misconduct. The handling of the matter had sparked speculation about potential tensions between the executive and the palace.

Anwar's restatement of cordial ties underscores the importance Malaysia places on maintaining harmonious relations between the government and the constitutional monarchy. The prime minister's remarks are intended to assure both domestic and international observers that institutional relationships remain sound despite recent political turbulence.

The government has continued to emphasize its respect for monarchical institutions while pursuing its judicial and administrative agenda. Officials have indicated that all actions taken regarding high-profile cases remain subject to proper legal frameworks and royal protocol.