Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has pledged that all royalties from his newly released book, Rethinking Ourselves, will go directly toward helping underprivileged students.
He made the announcement during the book’s launch and signing event at Tsutaya Bookstores in Pavilion Bukit Jalil on Sunday (Dec 7). The first edition is now available at RM95.
Anwar said the book is being published internationally through three major publishers: Hurst London for the UK, US, and Europe; Penguin for Asia; and Hong Kong University Press for China and East Asia.
“I will receive a substantial amount in royalties. I declare that every sen from this book will be channelled to underprivileged students,” he said, adding that his staff will ensure the funds reach students immediately. Pricing, he noted, was determined solely by the publishers.
Anwar revealed that the book was compiled from notes he wrote during his imprisonment in Sungai Buloh Prison. He dedicated the work to his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
Rethinking Ourselves examines issues such as multiracial cohesion, postcolonial struggles, and the fight against racism and corruption. Anwar emphasised that it is not an autobiography, but a reflection on Malaysia’s challenges and how the nation can regain dignity amid rapid global transitions.
“When I grew up, there was no talk of digital or energy transition. I wanted to reflect on how we cope with these complexities,” he said.
Anwar hopes the book will spark deeper discussions on reform, especially among political leaders.
“Leaders are often the last to think about change. For many, it is only about power. How do we convince people that corruption is a menace that destroys society?” he said, adding that those involved in corruption often wield significant influence.
He stressed that while technology enhances capabilities, it cannot shape a nation’s core values.
Speaking to the media later, Anwar clarified that his remarks about leaders “obsessed with power” were not aimed at any specific individual.
“It is a general remark. Change is imperative, but convincing people is difficult,” he said.
