KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has gone on 39 official visits and work trips to 22 countries since he came into power, amounting to a cost of RM13.7 million, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
She said in return, Anwar secured potential investment values of RM353.6 billion in 2023 and RM82.6 billion from January to October this year.
"Among the investment commitments generated from the investment promotion missions during this period include sectors such as the digital economy (data centres), electrical and electronics (semiconductors), and chemicals (petrochemicals and chemical products)," she said in a Parliamentary written reply dated Oct 29.
She was responding to a question from Datuk Awang Hashim (PN-Pendang) who asked for a list of the prime minister's overseas trips, the number of accompanying officers and the total expenditure incurred.
Zaliha said the purpose of Anwar's visits abroad was to strengthen and enhance diplomatic relations and cooperation with countries, including exploring new initiatives to further strengthen Malaysia's relationships with other countries and attending international conferences and meetings.
"These official visits and international conferences serve as excellent platforms to promote Malaysia and provide up-to-date information to the international business community on the country's economic position and business environment.
"The expenses for government officials accompanying the prime minister on overseas trips fall under the responsibility of their respective ministries. For security officers, the responsibility lies with the police and the Malaysian Armed Forces."
She said the expenses for Anwar's overseas visits consistently complied with the prevailing financial procedures, while also adopting prudent spending.
Each visit aimed for maximum output, she added, by adhering to the applicable regulations and optimising expenditure.
"The amount so far is considered to be reasonable and justified, taking into account the benefits obtained by the country based on the number of foreign investments that have expressed interest and have the potential to be realised," said Dr Zaliha.