Malaysia

Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi has met with dissident politician Anwar Ibrahim at a high-profile reception, a symbolic step that is likely to cool Malaysia’s political temperature. There had been speculation that the former prime minister would lead opposition against the ruling UMNO following his conviction for corruption six years ago, further weakening the party after poor results in the September elections. But although Badawi has ruled out the possibility of Anwar rejoining the UMNO, a better relationship between the men will assist the prime minister in consolidating power over the ruling party and build support for his reform process.

To read the full article, please choose one of the following options: