PM engages Malaysian student leaders from the UK and Ireland

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim received a courtesy visit from youth representatives of the United Kingdom and Eire Council (UKEC) yesterday, in a session that touched on strategic partnerships and national talent retention.

The student leaders, some of whom are currently on holiday or undergoing internships with private firms and government-linked companies (GLCs) in Malaysia and abroad, represent the interests of over 16,000 Malaysian students pursuing their studies in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

“UKEC, led by Vincent Tang, presented proposals to strengthen strategic cooperation opportunities between the Federal Government and UKEC through the Ministry of Higher Education across various areas in line with existing policies,” said Anwar in a statement posted on Facebook.

The Prime Minister also welcomed views on how Malaysia might better confront the long-standing issue of brain drain.

“I also sought opinions and suggestions on how we should address the issue of ‘brain drain’ that has plagued the country for so long,” he added.

Anwar stressed the importance of fully leveraging existing policies and government structures to avoid duplication of efforts, and called for sustained engagement and discourse.

“This step is crucial to ensure various issues can be addressed in an effective and systematic manner,” he noted. - August 15, 2025