PUTRAJAYA, 10 September 2025 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has ordered a temporary halt on all overseas travel by ministers and deputy ministers, ensuring full focus and dedication are placed on Malaysia’s preparations for Budget 2026 and the upcoming 47th ASEAN Summit, slated for October in Kuala Lumpur.
Communications Minister and government spokesperson Datuk Fahmi Fadzil revealed the directive following Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting, stating it takes effect immediately. He clarified that exceptions will be made only for meetings that were already scheduled beforehand or for issues granted special approval by the Cabinet.
“This is to ensure all ministers prioritise ongoing programmes and preparations for Budget 2026, which will be tabled by the Prime Minister on 10 October—just a few weeks away,” Fahmi explained during a post-Cabinet press briefing. He added that the same priority applies to the ASEAN Summit, expected to draw several world leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
The move underscores the government’s intention to concentrate its leadership on two cornerstone events: delivering a forward-looking national budget and hosting an internationally significant summit. By redirecting ministerial attention away from foreign travel during this period, Malaysia aims to ensure seamless execution of both pivotal initiatives.
