Anwar's 79th birthday celebrated as PKR National Congress concludes in Ayer Keroh

Ayer Keroh - The 2026 PKR National Congress came to a close today, coinciding with a birthday celebration for party president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, marking his 79th year. Anwar, concurrently serving as Malaysia's prime minister, participated in a cake-cutting ceremony alongside party leaders and observers. The event also paid homage to Nurul Izzah Anwar, PKR's deputy president, who will be stepping away from her role.

Nurul Izzah, fondly referred to as the "Srikandi Reformasi," was celebrated for her steadfast support of the reform movement since 1998 and her role as a pillar of the party. Another notable figure honoured was Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, a key leader who remains committed to the reform cause and PKR since its inception.

The tribute underscored the party's leadership journey, built on principles of reform, justice, and democracy. PKR was formed in 1999 following the reform movement sparked by Anwar's ousting as deputy prime minister in 1998, with Parti Keadilan Nasional serving as the initial political arm. It later united with Parti Rakyat Malaysia in 2003 to become PKR, consolidating its status as a multiethnic political party.

Its founding brought forth a political vision focused on social justice, democracy, human rights, transparency, and accountable governance. After enduring over two decades of political battles, PKR, together with partners in Pakatan Harapan, secured the federal government following the 14th General Election in 2018, with Anwar inaugurated as the 10th prime minister on Nov 24, 2022, following the 15th General Election.

Today's birthday celebration signified the party's transformation from a grassroots reform movement to a significant part of the national administration.