KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim paid tribute to former US President Jimmy Carter, highlighting his defiance of conventional American political wisdom on critical issues of war and peace. Anwar's remarks came after the 100-year-old former president passed away on Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia.

According to Anadolu Agency, Anwar praised Carter for his devoted service to both his country and humanity. The Malaysian leader emphasized Carter's courage in addressing controversial international issues, ranging from dialogue with Cuba to advocating for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and condemning the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Anwar noted that Carter's willingness to challenge prevailing political norms made him stand out.

Anwar also acknowledged Carter's bold stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He remarked on Carter's readiness to confront the sensitive issue by labeling Israel's practices in Palestine as apartheid, a position Carter took long before it gained wider acceptance. Anwar, who has taught in both the US and the UK, underscored Carter's steadfast commitment to the two-state solution despite facing intense criticism from pro-Israel groups.

Reflecting on Carter's enduring legacy, Anwar described him as an "unyielding, quiet force for peace and justice," whose principles often transcended politics. Carter's leadership, Anwar suggested, was marked by a profound dedication to peace and justice, even when it meant opposing powerful interests.