The wife of the detained former Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, has called for foreign observers to be allowed to attend his forthcoming trial.

Wan Azizah Ismail said she was concerned about reported remarks by the Prime Minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, that observers would not be permitted in court because it would put pressure on the judges.

She said this gave the impression that the government alone was empowered to decide who attended the trial and Malaysia should show the world that its judiciary was independent.

Mr Anwar was sacked by Dr Mahathir last month and arrested under Malaysia's Internal Security Act.

His detention has led to clashes between his supporters and police.

He is due to go on trial on November the second on ten counts of corruption and sodomy -- charges he denies.