To know a politician, listen to what he says. To know a leader, read what he writes and observe what he does. To know a man, listen to his soul and the rumblings of his heart. That is more complex.

(PKR de facto leader) Anwar Ibrahim, whose name is inextricably linked to Asian Renaissance, is indeed a complex man, a humanist, politician and a leader. We know him by his many roles in Malaysia and abroad where he is respected as an outstanding leader from our region.

In Malaysia, he is a challenge to his political opponents and critics. He has been a prisoner of conscience for having stood up for his ideals and principles. He paid a heavy price, spending six years in solitary confinement in Sungei Buloh prison until he was released in 2004.