Malaysia's Ahmad Zahid Hamidi Calls for Prayers for Anwar Ibrahim's Recovery

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on Malaysians to pray for the recovery of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is resting after undergoing a minor surgical procedure, while also visiting former Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who is receiving treatment at the National Heart Institute (IJN).

Ahmad Zahid said Anwar had informed him about the medical procedure on August 4 and expressed confidence that the prime minister would need only a short period of rest before returning to his duties.

“Let's pray together that his recovery will provide him with the comfort and strength to continue serving the country and the people as a whole,” Ahmad Zahid said, according to The Star.

Speaking after officiating at the launch of the 2026-2035 National Social Determinants of Health Strategic Plan for Orang Asli in Kampung Air Banun on Monday, August 10, Ahmad Zahid said Anwar should have at least two days of rest despite the procedure being minor.

He also said Anwar had asked him to chair Cabinet meetings during the prime minister's absence.

Anwar Undergoing Recovery

Anwar underwent an elective laparoscopic procedure on Monday to treat an abdominal para-umbilical hernia, according to Datuk Dr Asri Ranga Abdullah Ramaiah, head of the Prime Minister's Medical Team.

Dr Asri said the procedure went smoothly under the care of a team of medical specialists. Anwar is now undergoing physiotherapy and remains under close medical supervision as he recovers.

The procedure was described as elective, meaning it was planned rather than performed as an emergency intervention.

Ahmad Zahid Visits Ismail Sabri

Separately, Ahmad Zahid visited former Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob at IJN in Kuala Lumpur, where the Bera member of Parliament is undergoing treatment.

According to Malay Mail, Ahmad Zahid also posted on X that he was praying for Ismail Sabri's recovery and continued good health.

“I pray that he will continue to be given strength and good health, that all his affairs will be eased, and that he will be granted a full recovery,” Ahmad Zahid wrote.

He also expressed hope that Ismail Sabri would be able to resume his public service and daily activities as usual.

Ismail Sabri was taken to IJN after experiencing health problems while at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on August 6 to have his statement recorded.

He subsequently underwent a procedure at IJN to implant a wireless pacemaker to treat an abnormal heart condition.

The two developments come as Ahmad Zahid assumes additional responsibilities during Anwar's temporary absence while also offering support to the former prime minister during his medical treatment.

Read: Seven Riau Islands Fishermen Reportedly Detained in Malaysia

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News