How will Invest Malaysia improve speaker vetting processes?

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Invest Malaysia to Enhance Speaker Vetting Processes Following Controversy

The organisers of Invest Malaysia Kuala Lumpur 2026 (IMKL) have stated their commitment to strengthening speaker review and selection processes in response to concerns raised about a geopolitical commentator invited to the event. This enhancement aims to ensure that future speakers' personal views align with or do not conflict with the event's values and its organisers' positions. The organisers acknowledged an oversight in the initial vetting of Tim Marshall, a British journalist and author whose past commentary had drawn criticism from pro-Palestinian groups for perceived pro-Israel leanings.
Acknowledgment of Oversight in Speaker Selection

IMKL organisers admitted to an oversight in engaging Tim Marshall as a speaker without a sufficiently rigorous background review. They acknowledged that some of Marshall's past writings and commentary had been criticised by pro-Palestinian groups, who interpreted them as sympathetic to Israel. This admission came after concerns were raised regarding his participation in the event.
Reiteration of Stance on Palestine and Marshall's Views

The organisers explicitly stated that Marshall's personal views, opinions, and past commentary do not represent the views, values, or position of IMKL or its organising bodies. They reiterated their support for the Malaysian government's stance on Palestine, condemning all forms of violence, oppression, and atrocities against the Palestinian people. Marshall had been invited to participate virtually in a discussion concerning geopolitical developments and their impact on global markets, investment flows, and business strategy.
Commitment to Strengthening Future Processes

In response to the concerns, the IMKL organisers have pledged to take them seriously and to implement improvements in their speaker review and selection procedures moving forward. This commitment is intended to prevent similar issues from arising in future events and to ensure a more thorough vetting of all invited participants. The forum itself, co-hosted by Bursa Malaysia, CIMB, and Maybank, featured 61 Malaysian corporates and attracted over 1,500 policymakers, regulators, and investors.

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How will Invest Malaysia improve speaker vetting processes?

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