Mr Anwar, who had always said the charges against him were politically motivated, was sacked six years ago by former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammed, his mentor turned rival, following a row over the economy.

After leading a large anti-government protest he was arrested and in 1999 jailed for six years for corruption.

In 2000 Mr Anwar received a further nine years for sodomy - to be served concurrently with his corruption sentence. He had already failed to reverse the first of those convictions and finished serving his sentence for corruption last year.

What does Mr Anwar's freedom mean for Malaysia? Is he still a potent political force, or has his power waned during his long jail term? Send us your views.

This debate is now closed. Thank you for your comments.

The following comments reflect the balance of views we received:

Maybe it is a ploy to gain sympathy and respect from the people by Badawi, and to distance himself to some extent from Mahathir. But, it is the right thing to do, and is long overdue. I hope that the corruption charge is also overturned, allowing Mr Anwar to return to politics soon. The first priority now is his health, and provided that is stabilised I can see no doubt that Anwar will return to politics as soon as he can, and will be instrumental in much-needed reform in Malaysia. Eugene of Bournemouth needs to study the situation, or live in Malaysia, in order to realise that "political scenes" are far from identical everywhere in the world. To state that "the judiciary system in Malaysia is no doubt one of the most advanced in the world and is independent from the government" is a very naive and idealistic statement.
Liz Mulqueen, Bangkok, Thailand

(1) The judicial system of Malaysia has overturned Mr Anwar's sentence for sodomy. (2) Mr Anwar has served his sentence for corruption. (3) Having spent more than a year in prison, Mr Anwar is illegible for parliament for the next five years. (4) The Malaysian economy, after not following Mr Anwar's recommendations at the time he was DPM, is now one of the most vibrant in South East Asia and beyond. Mr Anwar's political clout depends on what Malaysians make of the above 4 points among others. Personally, I would think that the present regime has not been doing too badly after the masterstroke following the South East Asian crisis.
Kpdodo, Mauritius

I'm sad to hear one of the people contributing to this debate said that Anwar's overzealous supporters led to violent protest. I was accidentally with them and what I witnessed was the FRU and the Special Branch Police who provoked and started the violence. Otherwise, the protest could have been in control. Anyway, welcome back as a free man, Anwar.
Zifose, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

As a Malaysian, I feel this is a victory for all Malaysians irrespective of their political ideology Fandi Othman, Oxford

Malaysia strives to be a leader in the world scene. This landmark ruling means that Malaysia is committed in reforming its own administrative system. Hence it can serve to be an example to the third world countries it is leading. As a Malaysian, I feel this is a victory for all Malaysians irrespective of their political ideology. I believe that Malaysia will indeed be a truly great nation. A nation where democracy prevails and the people have a freedom in deciding their own lives.
Fandi Othman, Oxford

Contrary to all the odes to the apparent new-found freedom of the judiciary, Anwar was released simply because he is no longer a immediate threat to the government Lee Khee Gan, Kuala Lumpur

This whole charade is but yet another chapter in the whole shadow-play that is Malaysian politics. Contrary to all the odes to the apparent new-found freedom of the judiciary, Anwar was released simply because he is no longer a immediate threat to the government, and denying him medical treatment will make the Malaysian government an international pariah. As far as I'm concerned, this is just a ploy by the powers-that-be to gain political brownie points both locally and abroad. If Anwar is still a viable threat to the establishment, the yes-men in the judiciary wouldn't have been told to dismiss his conviction, period. As it is, Anwar cannot take part in politics for five years thanks to the law which states that anyone imprisoned for more than 12 months is disqualified. What a cynical yet brilliant masterstroke by the government.
Lee Khee Gan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

He is freed at last, thanks to Mighty good and I hope more justice will prevail after this. Six years in prison was a big pain for him and his family. For Mahathir and his team, I think he won't be sleeping well after this.
Anon, Malaysia

It means Malaysia still has a fighting chance of becoming a great nation.
CK, Selangor, Malaysia

The one person that comes out stronger with this decision is Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi Dollah Ali, Kuala Lumpur

The one person that comes out stronger with this decision is Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi. With one stroke, he brought back confidence to the judiciary. Investors looked at it very positively. With the formal endorsement of his Presidency three weeks away, he is clearly setting himself away and perhaps reversing the much talked grip of his predecessors. In due time, Abdullah is quite capable of bringing the much needed reform for the country. Anwar with his wretched track record is in no position to talk of reform.
Dollah Ali, Kuala Lumpur

I grew up in Malaysia, and was outraged by the treatment Anwar received at the hands of Mahatir. I think Anwar still has a large amount of support, but as far as I am aware, convicted criminals in the country are banned from running for office for several years after being released from jail.
Stu Smith, London, UK

It is return of a roaring political tiger who can cement a vibrant growth right in local economical scene as well as at international arena! He is still very relevant to revitalise the political stability in Malaysia. He has a proven track record that he is the ultimate person who can rationally rule the country whereby he is not second to any past, current and future leaders in Malaysia. I would like to stress that it is important to pass the baton to the winning runner of Malaysia. He is a political guru of modern Malaysia! Can anyone finger point to any other leaders in Malaysia who ready to make a lot of sacrifices regardless of reasons in Malaysia's political scenario!
Kumar, Kuala Lumpur

Thank God that Anwar is free and wish him and his family a happy and harmonious life. However the real winner is our beloved Prime Minister Pak Lah. God bless Malaysia
Peter, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia

I didn't hear him call the judges spineless and government lackey. Obviously, they are not when he gets his way. Aren't they part of the same judiciary system?
Zainon Ali, Johor Baru, Malaysia

Regardless of the political tumult that has befallen Malaysia due to the power struggle between to influential leaders, it is fundamental to understand there are deeper flaws within the fabric of the Malaysian society that has spawned this little crisis. As far as I am concerned, none of this matters, for true stability can only be achieved by social education and not by just economic and infrastructural might. Let not this minor news lead us astray from the meaning of true liberty and not the one celebrated in a festive mood.
Agoy Nibar, Port Dickson

It is the survival of the fittest, which applies in political scenes everywhere in the world Eugene, Bournemouth

Why people seem to think that PM Abdullah Badawi has the judicial power to influence the court's sentencing? The judiciary system in Malaysia is no doubt one of the most advanced in the world and is independent from the government. If one thinks that Badawi is in a position to release Anwar, then one should not blame Mahathir for his position to jail Anwar. Even though what had happened is unfortunate, it is hard to draw a line who is right or wrong in this political affair. It is the survival of the fittest, which applies in political scenes everywhere in the world.
Eugene, Bournemouth, UK

In reflecting on this case, and even though the Malaysian Court has found that there was no safe evidence that Mr Anwar was guilty of sodomy, we should not forget that sodomy laws criminalise the loving sexual behaviour of Malaysia's gay community. Whatever views are held by individuals on homosexuality, sodomy laws should be removed from the statute books.
Stephen Harte, Edinburgh, Scotland

I don't understand why people are thanking Badawi and the government KK Aw, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia

I don't understand why people are thanking Badawi and the government. They should thank the two judges who had the guts to make this decision. If Badawi has interfered with the court then he is just as bad as Dr. M. Just because you like the judgement, does not make it right.
KK Aw, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia

Anwar is free, finally. Maybe we now can concentrate on the rebuilding of Malaysian system of governance which the original reformasi/reform movement was about, to bring back an independent judiciary and independent media of the country. I hope Mr Anwar will not forget that his freedom was not only won by his lawyers but by constant pressure from politicians, internet media and people on the current government to look again to the facts of his case. We hope Mr Anwar will not forget countless people who were moved by his ideals, and joined him when he first made the permatang pauh declarations. Some of these people paid with their lives during the Mahathir regime. Some paid by doing jail time. He has to carry on his reforms for the good of the nation and the good of the world in general. Mr Anwar earned this.
Anon, Malaysia/

My heart goes out to Anwar's family, especially his wife Aziza and children. As a journalist having covered most of the events 5-6 years ago (Reformasi protest, arrest, trial and sentence), I felt for Aziza (MP), children as well as Anwar's father who were deeply hurt through the ordeal. I can't even imagine the immensity of their joy. The charismatic leader of the Reformasi movement returns!
Michael, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The Malaysian Judiciary system is finally being transparent Kasthuri Patto, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Malaysian Judiciary system is finally being transparent with their cases - especially high profile ones like this. A warm congratulations to Anwar and his family for their continuous struggle to uphold justice in a country where the leader rules with an almost iron fist masked by democracy. This will pave way for a more just, liberal and democratic legal system in the future.
Kasthuri Patto, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

It is premature to make comments on the 'improvement' of freedom in Malaysia. Of course Anwar's release is a bit of relief, but what about those innocent ISA (Internal Security Act) detainees? I don't think we are even nearer to the so called 'freedom' yet.
Nizam, PJ

As a 15 year old living in the land of multi-racial freedom, I hope Anwar's supporters will not disturb the peace as it is now. I certainly do hope he doesn't involve himself in politics again. After all, better safe than sorry.
Andrew Leng, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Anwar's release is just what is required to restore our faith in Malaysia's judicial system. More significantly, Anwar's release has strengthened Abdullah Badawi's position as a leader of integrity and honesty - rightfully and deservedly so.
John Ferguson, Putney, London UK

His freedom should mean more freedom for Malaysians Ibroe Alli, Kuching, Malaysia

His freedom should mean more freedom for Malaysians. It is actually a win-win situation for both Anwar and Abdullah. We need checks and balances and Anwar is the right candidate to do that to our government. Mahathir on the one hand showed his stubbornness as usual. But he is gone for good. To me, Mahathir is too emotional in some decision makings. What happened today should be cherished by all Malaysians as our judiciary system now is more transparent and independent.
Ibroe Alli, Kuching, Malaysia

Whatever it is, his political career is gone. Whether his absence in the government is a blessing for the country is debatable. He is now being acquitted but his credibility on his personal behaviour is already dented and it is difficult to erase the "black memory" of this whole affair. It is a pity! In the final analysis, yes, justice is being done. Make no mistake about it.
Kamarudin, Malaysia

The problem with Malaysia's political and judicial systems is that it resembles those of other Muslim countries. In such systems it is almost impossible to oppose or unseat a national leader without causing political instability. In short, Mr Anwar Ibrahim should understand that a leader of a Muslim country cannot be opposed using the Western democratic thinking and philosophies. If he still wants to be a leader he should migrate to a non-Muslim country.
Abu Musa, Malaysia

Personally, sympathy to him. then again, if he was the victim of politically-motivated prosecution, wasn't he (an important)part of the government that makes all this abuse of power possible in the first place? The winners might be Anwar and the Abdullah government, but the losers are certainly ordinary Malaysians and that is the saddest part of this entire episode.
Minghock, Malaysia

I am an local university student. Like all common fellow Malaysian I hope and wish Anwar have a successful treatment in Munich. But one thing I don't want to see is another violent protest, I am just sick and tired of it. Hopefully his overzealous supporters wouldn't disrupt peace again. We Malaysian are getting rich everyday and positive about being the next Singapore. I just want peace and money, that's all!
Wong Wen Thein, Kuching, Sarawak

What this event crucially signifies is that there is still sense in the Malaysian judiciary system amidst the vile and sickening drama of Anwar's trial and the way he was treated while in prison. Democracy in Malaysia has moved a step forward and I believe we could all expect great things to come in the future, for a start being increased confidence in Malaysian democracy. I'd have to say Pak Lah is a true gentleman. God bless you, Mr Anwar.
Rizal Hardi, Petaling Jaya, Selangor

At last. It exposes the arrogance of the previous government and allows Malaysia to move forward. The country owes Anwar compensation, both moral and monetary.
Raul Alexander, Berlin, Germany

One more step towards true democracy for everyone in Asia Josephine Ong, London

The judgement today vindicates all those who believed that the charges against Anwar were trumped up to remove him from challenging Dr Mahathir in 1997/78. Anwar is no angel but even if an angel there is always a little of the devil in one. The past six years must have given him plenty of time for to reflect on who are his supporters, who are his friends and his enemies. It should also have provided plenty of time for he to know what is right for this nation. He should now spend a little more time to ponder on what he has learned during these six long years of midnights now that he is in daylight once again. Maybe then should he plan his next move(s) and may those moves be right ones for him and the nation he says he so loves.
Lone, Taiping, Malaysia

One more step towards true democracy for everyone in Asia. Hurray for Anwar!
Josephine Ong, London

It is never too late for justice to be served. This thorn in the side of the government has been removed and it is time to concentrate on the healing process. Anwar should be as magnanimous as Mandela was when the latter was freed.
William Lim, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Welcome back Anwar Ibrahim. We Malaysians looking forward for a leader who can bring forward all three major races in a single party. We Malaysians hope that your fire within you will stay as bright as it was for the last 6 years. We will be with you. Malaysia need a leader like you to realise one political party for all Malaysians.
Chandrasegaran, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Anwar's freedom means that Malaysia has cemented its commitment to democracy into the 21st century. The new government led by Mr Badawi has honoured the concept of separation of powers by not interfering with its judiciary body. Hats off to the judges and him for having the courage to lead! The future holds for a more transparent system of accountability. I hope Malaysians will stand strong and work together towards a better Malaysia, setting a good model for the rest of the Islamic world as there is already enough conflict and instability amongst nations.
As for Mr. Anwar's political career, I hope his supporters will take this opportunity to encourage positive message of peace and stability and the ability of Malaysians to work together for the good of its people.
Mezwyn Carter, Australia

The freedom of Mr Anwar means the Malaysia judiciary is trying to be transparent and moving towards balance judgement, which not the case in many countries which includes the Western block and not forgetting the ICJ in Hague. About his political force, he might be relevant if Dr Mahathir were still in place now as the prime minister but since the 'super clean' man Mr Badawi is currently in control there is no chance for Mr Anwar camp to make any issues. We wish Mr Anwar and his wife a new peaceful and harmonious chapter of life.
Dr Vijanth, Melaka Malaysia

Anwar's release could well shake the earth under Malaysian politics Kumar, Melbourne, Australia

The despair that has for so long infected observers of Malaysian justice has now lifted. We hope that this unexpected turn of events heralds a resurgence of democracy and freedom in Malaysia under Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi. Far from being a spent force, Anwar's release could well shake the earth under Malaysian politics. It is to Badawi's credit that he has chosen to right the grievous wrong of his predecessor rather than just look after his own political future. By doing so, he has shown himself worthy of his office.
Kumar, Melbourne, Australia

In my opinion, Malaysian Government released Mr Anwar simply because the new government wants to put this shameful event behind them. Actually it is pretty obvious that the sodomy charge is totally fabricated and should have been dismissed long time ago. I think Mr Anwar is still a potent political force because of his charisma and well connection in the Malay society.
K C Goh, KL, Malaysia

Anwar Ibrahim is still a political force. I am currently at his residence and from the crowd here definitely he still has the support like he had before he was removed as the No. 2 man in Malaysia. With the current political leaders lacking in charisma and vision Anwar Ibrahim will be a welcome change to the political scenario of Malaysia. Welcome back Anwar, our prayers for your release has been answered!
Alif Lazeer, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Anwar is still a potent political force in the country. However he should be grateful to Pak Lah for without his leadership Anwar's release would not have been possible. With both good and bad experience behind him Anwar should see the harmony and unity within the nation is not destroyed. He should listen to only sensible political minds wanting to do good for sound nation building of this multi racial society. RR
R Rama Chandran, P Jaya, Malaysia

The decision is a testament to the clean, fair and impartial administration under our beloved Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi. This is a new chapter written in Malaysia's history and it will allow us to let go of the past. It has given us renewed confidence in our Prime Minister and strengthen our believes in his ability and integrity. This is not a victory for Anwar and his supporters but a victory for all Malaysians.
Alex Tan, Kuantan, Malaysia

I'm glad that he has been released but what use is he now? He's politically too weak to pose any threat to the Barisan National.
Ryan Mcbride, Singapore

Freedom of Anwar Ibrahim is in favour of Abdullah Ahmed the Prime Minister of Malaysia. He has won the hearts of common people, especially Malay community. Many people became opponents of the government because of Anwar's issue and the government has now got good support of people for freeing him. Due to balanced policies on liberalism and Islam and having Islamic background Abdullah Ahmed is getting more support in majority race of Malay then his predecessor
Ghulam Rasool, Malaysia, Cyberjaya

Malaysians simply do not have a political dialogue that is in any way useful Matthew Malpeli, Kuala Lumpur

As an ex-pat living in Kuala Lumpur, I have had much opportunity to gauge the attitudes of Malaysians towards Anwar, but with little results. Malaysians simply do not have a political dialogue that is in any way useful. What is clear is that the ruling UMNO party will always run the show and anyone who threatens their power will be ruthlessly silenced. All Malaysians should be worried... if they can do this to a former deputy prime minister, what's to stop them doing it to any citizen, for any reason they choose? They must end the division of political power based on race and have at least some ideological debate, or continue to suffer money politics and racial divide.
Matthew Malpeli, Kuala Lumpur

Thank God that now the world won't be laughing at our judiciary system anymore.
George, Penang, Malaysia

His power may have reduced. Otherwise he would not have been freed. We all know that he was jailed in a 100% political court ordered by Mahathir. It was a disgusting show to follow then. Getting Anwar free is a step of the Malaysian ruling party towards democracy but there is still a marathon ahead for real democracy. Democracy does not thrive in South East Asia.
Miklos Nomad, Gyor, Hungary

The former Malaysian prime minister has already got his pound of flesh from Anwar Ibrahim - they had already wrongfully imprisoned him under atrocious conditions for the last six years. It makes one wonder why so many former British colonies have dismal record when it comes to administering justice? Or are they simply following their rulers?
Serbiach, Orange, CA, USA

Thanks to all who pressured the Malaysian government to get Ibrahim out of jail.
Joanna Sheldon, Ceret, France (expat USA)

The despair that has for so long infected observers of Malaysian justice has now lifted Kumar, Melbourne, Australia

The despair that has for so long infected observers of Malaysian justice has now lifted. We hope that this unexpected turn of events heralds a resurgence of democracy and freedom in Malaysia under Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi. Far from being a spent force, Anwar's release could well shake the earth under Malaysian politics. It is to Badawi's credit that he has chosen to right the grievous wrong of his predecessor rather than insure his own political future. By doing so, he has shown himself worthy of his office.
Kumar, Melbourne, Australia

Mr Anwar still exist in Malaysians' hearts and once out free, may command and become a powerful political figure in the country, if he wishes.
Nazarene Nickolas, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysia has to become more of a level playing field for all races, to meet the challenges of the global economy, growth of China etc. He could do what no one else has been able to do, that is unite the fragmented opposition, and provide a credible opposition to the government. I think Abdullah Badawi knows he has to reform the system, reduce corruption and the free ride for some Malays, but he cannot move too fast, although his position has been strengthened by recent election results. I think Anwar can be an influence for the good in Malaysian politics, I doubt whether he will come to power in his own right. But no doubt this is a great day for all Malaysians.
Mike, Bristol, UK

The freedom of Mr Anwar means the Malaysia judiciary is trying to be transparent and moving towards balance judgement, which not the case in many countries which includes the Western block and not forgetting the ICJ in the Hague. About his political force, he might be relevant if Dr Mahathir was still in place now as the prime minister but since the 'super clean' man Mr Abdullah Badawi is currently in control there no chance for Mr Anwar's camp to make any issues. We wish Mr Anwar and his wife a new peaceful and harmonious chapter of life.
Dr Vijanth, Melaka Malaysia

The release of Anwar Ibrahim is a considerable morale and political booster towards the alternative front. Until now, the alternative front lacked a real leading character in its drive against the National Front. I could not help but show my delight, in a sense that there is hope that Anwar Ibrahim will be the next prime minister.
Amir Hamiduddin Amha, Yokohama, Japan

Anwar Ibrahim is still a political force. I am currently at his residence and from the crowd here definitely he still has the support like he had before he was removed as the Number Two man in Malaysia. With the current political leaders lacking in charisma and vision Anwar Ibrahim will be a welcome change to the political scenario of Malaysia. Welcome back Anwar, our prayers for your release have been answered!
Alif Lazeer, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

I think this is a brilliant move by Badawi. The Barisan party is on a popularity high at the moment what with winning all those seats away from PAS in Terengganu and Kelantan. Anwar's platform against the government has always been about corruption, Badawi's movement to stamp out corruption, although ineffective, basically nullifies Anwar's stand.
Anne, Colchester, UK

Thanks to God Almighty, freedom and justice has finally prevailed in my beloved country. I believe he will find his way easily into the country's political arena soon with his own state man and friend now being the new PM of this country. May God bless them for the future of this nation.
Peer Mohamed Ibramsha, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia