Madani moment: Anwar at the Aidilfitri event hosted by the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry at Wisma Sebati in Kuching. With him is its minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. — Bernama
KUCHING: Stating the important role individual states play within the Federation in formulating development plans, the Prime Minister acknowledged Sarawak’s contributions to national progress.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Sarawak is among the states that have made significant contributions, with several countries recognising its economic initiatives.
“Sarawak is now playing a major role. In every country I visit, be it in Europe, China, Japan, or even within Asean, Sarawak is regarded as having immense potential, especially as a regional energy hub,” he said at the state-level Madani Aidilfitri celebration.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof were also in attendance.
The Prime Minister also said Malaysians must prioritise maintaining the country’s stability to effectively face global challenges, ensuring the nation’s resilience and competitiveness.
He said the recent move by US President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on several trading partners serves as a reminder on the importance of maintaining stability.
“President Donald Trump has imposed shocking tariffs. We are facing a 24% tariff while other countries like Indonesia and Thailand are at 30% and some even as high as 50%.
“So, what should we do? We must properly take care of our own household, our country, our economy. This is important because when a disaster strikes, we are able to survive. This is what resilience is all about, ensuring that we maintain our competitiveness.”
Anwar gave his assurance that this government is open to listening to the people’s concerns and is continuously working to improve governance.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari said Malaysia should maintain its focus on strengthening the national economy rather than being unduly concerned by tariff pressures from certain countries.
The Sarawak Premier said that Malaysia must also give due attention to maintaining political stability.
“Our leaders have elevated the country’s standing on the world stage. Our economy has continued to grow, even though some countries are seeking to impose certain tariffs.
“It’s alright, let us set tariffs aside. What matters most is the strength of our national economy,” he said in his speech.
The Sarawak-level Madani Aidilfitri celebration was organised by the Transition and Water Transformation Ministry, in collaboration with the Sarawak secretariat office and the Prime Minister’s Office’s performance acceleration and coordination unit.
As the fifth destination in the Madani Aidilfitri celebration series, the event also served as a platform and symbol of Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity, reinforcing harmony and well-being among its multiracial and multireligious society.
