IPOH: The implications of introducing economic stimulus packages to arrest impacts from the Middle East crisis will have to be studied before any decision can be made to introduce such packages, says the Prime Minister.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government would also need to ensure that all necessary items are sufficient before it can put forward stimulus packages.
“It is important that we ensure all necessary items are available, including fuel, cooking oil, fish, flour, sugar, meat chicken and salt.
“We will then see if we allow some leeway for businesses by reducing tariffs, taxes or payment to lessen the burden of the people.
“There were some who suggested postponing (the implementation of) e-invoicing to lessen the burden, we will look at this as well,” he told reporters at the Program Madani Rakyat.
In his speech, the Prime Minister called on all parties, including the Opposition, to work together towards helping the country, amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
Anwar said the 16th General Election is not expected to be held soon and that now is the time to work to save the country.
“I will not have an election in the next one to two months, be patient for a while. When the time for the elections come, let’s fight.
“Now is the time to work, enough of politics, get up and save our country,” he added.
He said with the crisis in the Middle East impacting the economy, politics need to be put aside.
He also directed the police and army to be vigilant, as there may be external forces that are looking to create unrest.
He said some could be envious of the country’s stable economy and could impact the security situation.
At another event, Anwar said Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining good relations with all countries while determining its own policies as an independent nation, including in addressing the challenges of the global energy crisis.
He said this neutral and open approach is important to ensure national interests are safeguarded, especially as geopolitical uncertainties continue to put pressure on the global economy.
He said that Malaysia does not rely on the approval of any major power in determining its policies, but instead makes its own decisions as a sovereign nation.
“We must be friends with everyone. Malaysia is a free and independent country, and we decide our own policies,” he said, Bernama reported.
Anwar also noted that Malaysia’s good relations with Arab and Gulf countries, including Iran, enable continued communication and cooperation, while ensuring the country’s shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz remain open.
“Although Malaysia is not a large nation, we are grateful that all the Arab and Gulf countries have reached out to us, including the President of Iran,” he said.
