KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's approach in defusing several controversies related to racial and religious sensitivities in recent times is a leadership model that should be emulated.

Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute (ASLI) Chief Executive Officer Danial Rahman in a statement said that calm leadership style, clear communication, collaborative problem solving and cultural sensitivity are a very effective approach.

Referring to the recent issue between a temple and a mosque, he said that among the steps was to calmly overcome the commotion by providing a true explanation when there was false information spread, such as the government allegedly forcing the temple to be moved.

"Anwar and his team explained that the land was sold in 2012, long before MADANI, (this is) the government's role as an intermediary and not the instigator (of the controversy).

"In addition, rather than just issuing official statements, the Prime Minister and his team also provided daily explanations on the legal context, acknowledging past weaknesses and detailing the basis for the solution."

"Federal Territories Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa also played an important role in ensuring that this issue did not end up in court and is commended for her efforts," he said.

Commenting further, Danial said that Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif also went to the ground to meet stakeholders, thus showing that Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is more friendly and responsive.

“Also present were Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Datuk Seri M. Ramanan and Member of Parliament for Batu Prabakaran Parameswaran, both of whom are Indian. Their presence is not merely symbolic but gives confidence that this government represents all races,” he said.

Danial said the government also stood up to refute false information when most public discussions were shrouded in politically manipulated information even though civil society concerns about the protection of heritage sites and places of worship were valid.

“The dangerous narrative that claims that the government bowing to pressure from temples will make Malay-Muslims look weak is untrue and very dangerous,” he said.

He said this was not the first time Anwar had acted proactively when tensions were high.

After the controversial Thaipusam sketch incident by three radio presenters, he met them at a media iftar.

According to his Press Secretary Tunku Nashrul, the Prime Minister advised them to ‘always carry the message of unity in line with the spirit of MADANI which emphasises compassion and respect’.

“It may sound simple, but the symbolism is important. Leadership is not just about making policy or steering ministries, but it calls for leaders to go to the ground, connect directly with the people and be present at crucial times."

“Anwar’s approach of facilitating and calming (win-win) is not something that is easily achieved. Is his effort undervalued? Maybe. Good results are often not sensational for the media or TikTok. But we should not belittle them,” he said.

He believes unity is not built in a moment, but rather achieved through consistent practice of respect, daily empathy, compromise and the willingness to lead without fear.

According to Danial, the MADANI government's approach creates a very unique government responsive culture and can ensure that the country continues to be harmonious.