Investment conference apologises over speaker’s selection

Invest Malaysia Kuala Lumpur 2026 attracted over 1,500 policymakers, regulators, and investors for discussions on Malaysia’s positioning amid external uncertainties, fiscal priorities, and investment execution. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: The organisers of Invest Malaysia Kuala Lumpur 2026 (IMKL) have apologised for what they describe as an oversight in engaging geopolitical commentator Tim Marshall as a speaker without conducting a more rigorous background review.

A British journalist, foreign affairs commentator, and author, some of Marshall’s past writings and commentaries have drawn criticism from pro-Palestinian groups, who view them as sympathetic to Israel.

In a statement today, IMKL’s organisers acknowledged concerns raised over Marshall’s participation in the June 9 event and stressed that his personal views, opinions, or past commentaries did not reflect the views, values, or position of IMKL and its organisers.

“We take the concerns raised seriously and will strengthen our speaker review and selection processes going forward,” they said.

The organisers also reiterated their support for the government’s position on Palestine, saying they strongly condemned all forms of violence, oppression, and atrocities against the Palestinian people.

Marshall was invited to participate virtually in an IMKL discussion on geopolitical developments and their implications for global markets, investment flows, and business strategy.

Co-hosted by Bursa Malaysia, CIMB, and Maybank, IMKL featured 61 leading Malaysian corporates and attracted over 1,500 policymakers, regulators, and investors for discussions on Malaysia’s positioning amid external uncertainties, fiscal priorities, and investment execution.