Anwar signals no imminent GE16

LocalPolitics
5 Apr 2026 • 7:26 AM MYT
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DATUK Seri Anwar Ibrahim has indicated that Malaysia will not head to the polls in the immediate future, calling instead for unity and sustained focus on managing the global energy crisis.

Speaking at the launch of the Program MADANI Rakyat (PMR) 2026 Perak at Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah in Meru Raya on Saturday, the Prime Minister emphasised that the current moment demands cooperation rather than political rivalry.

"This is not a political issue. This is not about political battles, about being hostile towards one another... there will not be an election in the next one or two months, be patient for a while.

"Tomorrow, when it is time for elections, then compete. For now, work. Enough with politics, rise and save our country," he said.

Also present at the event were Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

In his address, Anwar underscored that the government’s priority is to navigate economic pressures linked to global instability, including energy supply concerns arising from conflict in West Asia.

He added that Putrajaya has developed its own mechanisms to monitor the implementation of partial work-from-home arrangements within the civil service, ensuring that integrity and service delivery standards are maintained.

According to him, the proposal — put forward by the Chief Secretary and the Director-General of Public Service — requires a culture of accountability and effective oversight to prevent misuse.

Anwar said the policy serves as a test of Malaysians’ resilience and discipline in confronting uncertain global economic conditions, while also forming part of broader preparations to strengthen national readiness in the face of a potential energy crisis.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister also presented Sumbangan Sentuhan Kasih Syawal aid to selected beneficiaries, with RM5,000 allocated to each recipient, including orphanages, elderly care homes and centres for persons with disabilities.

Additional contributions under the Ministry of Housing and Local Government were distributed through housing repair and reconstruction programmes, as well as the Rumah Mesra Rakyat initiative. - April 5, 2026