Investment forum apologises after inviting pro-Israel-linked geopolitical speaker to Kuala Lumpur event

KUALA LUMPUR, June 15 — The organisers of Invest Malaysia Kuala Lumpur 2026 (IMKL) have apologised for what they described as an oversight in engaging a geopolitical commentator with pro-Israel-leaning views as a speaker without conducting a more rigorous background review.

According to Free Malaysia Today, the organisers acknowledged concerns raised over the participation of British journalist, foreign affairs commentator and author Tim Marshall at the June 9 event.

They said some of his past writings and commentary had drawn criticism from pro-Palestinian groups, who view them as sympathetic towards Israel.

In a statement, IMKL organisers stressed that Marshall’s personal views, opinions and past commentary did not reflect the views, values or position of IMKL or 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, adding that they strongly condemned all forms of violence, oppression and atrocities against the Palestinian people.

Marshall had been invited to participate virtually in a 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 Malaysian corporates and attracted more than 1,500 policymakers, regulators and investors, focusing on Malaysia’s positioning amid global uncertainties, fiscal priorities and investment execution.