Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim extended best wishes to the Malaysian contingent ahead of the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, encouraging athletes to "compete with the highest spirit and uphold the values of discipline, integrity and sportsmanship," he said on July 24, 2026, one day after the Games opened [1, 2].
The 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games officially began with the opening ceremony on July 23 at The Hydro, starting at 3 a.m. Malaysian time. The event takes place across four main venues within a 12.8-kilometer radius of Glasgow city center: Scotstoun Stadium, Tollcross International Swimming Centre, Glasgow Arena, and the Scottish Event Campus [1, 2].
In addition to his message to the athletes, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also congratulated Ahmad Nor Iman Aliff Rakib, known as Alif Rakib, for becoming Malaysia’s first ONE Championship Muay Thai world champion. Alif secured the ONE Championship Interim Strawweight Muay Thai World Title on July 24 in Bangkok by knocking out Thailand’s Sam-A Gaiyanghadao in the fifth round at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium [3].
For his victory, Alif Rakib received the championship belt and a US$50,000 (RM204,565) performance bonus. The Prime Minister praised the athlete’s dedication, saying, "Nothing is impossible when effort is paired with dedication and faith. Well done, Aliff. Malaysia is proud of this success" [3].
As the Games progress, Malaysian athletes are set to compete in events held throughout Glasgow within close proximity. The Prime Minister’s remarks aimed to motivate the team to display honesty and dignity in their performances [1].
