Anwar to return to Malaysia soon

Anwar to return to Malaysia soon

MALAYSIA: Malaysian former deputy leader Anwar Ibrahim plans to return home Oct. 31 after nearly two months abroad, but will avoid strenuous political activity during the Muslim fasting period that ends next month, an aide said on Monday.

Anwar -- who was freed from a Malaysian prison on Sept. 2 after nearly six years behind bars on corruption and sodomy convictions -- wants to "make up for lost time by meeting old friends and renewing ties," said Kamarul Baharin Abbas, treasurer of the opposition People's Justice Party.

Anwar left Malaysia two days after his release to undergo surgery in Germany for a long-standing back injury. He has since recovered and traveled to Saudi Arabia for a pilgrimage.

"He's in no hurry to do anything once he gets back," Kamarul told The Associated Press.

He said Anwar would consider his next move after the Muslim holy month of Ramadhan, which ends in mid-November. --AP