Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia must navigate global economic uncertainties from geopolitical conflicts with a prudent diplomatic approach.
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stated that Malaysia must adopt a prudent diplomatic approach to navigate global economic uncertainties arising from geopolitical conflicts that disrupt supply chains and affect commodity prices.
He emphasised that while the country remains firm in its stance on international issues, its trade and economic relations with major global powers must be managed strategically.
Anwar explained that the art of diplomacy enables Malaysia to maintain good relations with various countries, including those in West Asia and the United States, without compromising national interests.
“While we are firm in addressing injustices, including those involving the United States, we must remain wise and avoid becoming overly adversarial so that we can continue to maintain trade cooperation,” he said.
He added that some countries push for confrontation with a ‘with us or against us’ approach, a tactic he stated does not work and must be countered with wisdom.
The Prime Minister made these remarks at the launch of Kolej Vokasional Pengerang at SMK Tanjung Pengelih in Pengerang.
Citing the global energy crisis, Anwar said strong diplomatic ties have enabled Malaysia to manage such challenges, including securing the release of seven Malaysian vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz.
He revealed that discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian resulted in immediate clearance for the vessels to resume their journey after he highlighted the critical need for national oil supply.
“This shows that good diplomatic relations are essential,” Anwar said, noting he had also engaged leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Turkiye and the United States on current issues.
He stated that conflicts in West Asia have significantly impacted the global economy through rising oil prices, higher logistics costs and supply chain disruptions.
While Malaysia is not immune to these pressures, Anwar said the country remains more stable than some others that have had to take drastic measures.
He noted that some ASEAN nations have closed up to 400 petrol stations, while others are facing fuel prices exceeding RM10 per litre.
The MADANI government remains committed to addressing these challenges through strategic measures, including proposals from the National Economic Action Council.
Also present at the event were Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, and Johor Education and Information Committee chairman Aznan Tamin.
