From F1 to the World Cup: How Anwar is using sport as diplomacy to put Malaysia on the world stage
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s approach of leveraging sports as a platform...
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is using sports as a means of diplomacy, economic boost and national branding, according to an analyst. The Global Peace Institute's Prof Dr Mohd Mizan Mohammad Aslam highlighted Malaysia's recent success in leveraging global sporting events to strengthen international relationships, generate economic activity and create a sense of national unity.
The return of Formula 1 to Sepang International Circuit and Malaysia's efforts to enable access to the 2026 Fifa World Cup broadcasts are two notable examples of sports diplomacy in action. The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, held from Oct 2–4, provided a platform for bilateral relations between Malaysia and Bahrain, with both kings meeting Anwar during the race weekend.
The event attracted approximately 95,000 spectators, generating significant economic benefits, with the Ministry of Tourism estimating around 300,000 tourists and Hong Leong Bank Research projecting an economic impact of RM1.3 billion. Turning to football, Malaysia's commitment to ensuring access to the 2026 Fifa World Cup through legitimate broadcasting channels demonstrates the domestic dimension of sports diplomacy, creating shared experiences and social inclusion.
Anwar Ibrahim's approach to diplomacy extends beyond formal conferences, utilizing sports to bring the world closer to Malaysia and strengthen its global standing.
Written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
