Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim turned his long-haul flight to South Africa into an unexpected media event when he initiated an impromptu mid-air press briefing aboard the chartered Airbus A350-900. The unusual session unfolded roughly two hours after the aircraft departed Addis Ababa, catching journalists by surprise when they were informed that the prime minister was ready to take questions at the back of the cabin.
Passengers, including business leaders and senior government officials, appeared startled as Anwar made his way to the aft section, greeting those seated nearby before taking a moment to request a cup of tea from the cabin crew. Cameras and equipment were quickly arranged as the prime minister signalled his readiness to begin what became an hour-long conversation at 12,000 metres above ground.
During the briefing, Anwar addressed several ongoing national controversies that had been drawing public scrutiny back home. One topic centred on his political secretary’s involvement in issuing a support letter linked to bids for a hospital construction project, a matter that had prompted calls for firmer accountability. He also touched on the scandal surrounding the Football Association of Malaysia and the naturalisation of foreign-born players, a storyline that had recently triggered widespread debate among football fans and policymakers.
The session extended into an informal, off-the-record discussion where Anwar shared his thoughts on political dynamics, governance challenges, and broader national priorities. Passengers standing nearby observed the rare in-flight engagement, with many taking the opportunity to capture photographs once the briefing concluded. Some were seen requesting personal snapshots as the atmosphere gradually shifted from press-focused to casual interaction.
The aircraft landed in Pretoria at approximately 6.40pm, marking the start of Anwar’s participation in the G20 Leaders Summit, held at the invitation of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Malaysia is attending this year’s summit as the incoming ASEAN chair for 2025, giving the country an active role in several discussions during the high-level gathering.
Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, is accompanied by International Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, senior officials, and a business delegation. The visit will continue with an official programme in Nairobi on November 23 before the prime minister returns to Malaysia.
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