[UPDATED] Anwar: Colonial-era laws must go to give true meaning to independence

Permatang Pauh: In a speech at the Sahabat Madani 2026 Merdeka programme, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim argued that colonial-era laws should be abolished to ensure Malaysia fully embraces its independence. The former prime minister emphasized that a sovereign nation must possess the confidence to review laws inherited from its colonial past, especially those that curtail the freedom and participation of its people.

Anwar stressed that independence is not merely about ending foreign rule, but also reclaiming Malaysians' right to determine their own destiny, systems, and future. He recounted the humiliation faced by the country under Portuguese, Dutch, British, and Japanese rule, which made decisions for Malaysia without input from its people.

Anwar urged Malaysians to understand why colonialism was rejected, as they did not wish for their systems, wealth, culture, and future to be dictated by outsiders. He stressed the need for a united, confident, and capable Malaysia that can determine its own direction, including providing young Malaysians greater space to express their views and contribute to national development.

Anwar highlighted the importance of allowing young people to voice their opinions while maintaining accountability, and stressed the necessity of building a nation rooted in values, morality, religion, culture, and humanity, while embracing technological progress and economic development.