DILI: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia’s ability to maintain political stability and prudent financial management enabled the country to carry out reforms and sustain economic growth.
Addressing the Malaysian diaspora and alumni of the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme and Malaysian Defence Cooperation Programme here yesterday, the Prime Minister said peace and stability were the foundation for reforms in education, institutions and energy, alongside the drive for digitalisation and AI.
He said political stability allows Malaysia to implement gradual reforms without creating division.
“We understand it has to be conducted wisely, not abrasive, not to rush things. Why have we in Malaysia achieved what we have done? Firstly, there is peace. There is political stability,” he said, Bernama reported.
Anwar, who is on a two-day inaugural visit here, said leadership, civil service and private sector cooperation were crucial to attract foreign direct investments and strengthen domestic investments, while ensuring the national economy continued to move forward.
While underscoring good governance as central to Malaysia’s progress, the Prime Minister also cautioned against corruption, abuse and waste.
Highlighting his administration’s fiscal prudence, Anwar said petrol prices had been brought down to RM1.99 per litre, among the lowest in the world, through strict procurement processes, savings in flood mitigation projects and targeted subsidies.
“This is why I continue to speak about corruption, whether in Timor-Leste or elsewhere. Leaders must know they are accountable now, later, and ultimately to God,” he said.
Anwar urged Malaysians to rise above racial or regional politics, warning that divisive rhetoric could tear the nation apart.
“Remember, we must place national interests and aspirations above all. Once you have commotion, the centre cannot hold, and then you see disasters,” he said.
Anwar also reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to digitalisation, energy transition, education and health, while thanking PETRONAS for its involvement in Timor-Leste as a reflection of regional cooperation.
