Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia must continue undertaking reforms to rebuild its economic foundations and remain competitive globally. He said while the government had demonstrated the ability to implement key policies, the pace of reform needed to be accelerated to deliver stronger outcomes.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized the necessity of taking brave decisions for economic reform, even if they are not popular. He stressed the importance of focusing on impactful changes, acknowledging that not all changes can happen simultaneously. Anwar made these remarks while moderating the Forum Ilmuwan Malaysia MADANI (FIM) Series 9 held at Sasana Kijang, Bank Negara Malaysia.
The forum featured a panel comprising Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, BNM Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour, and World Bank Lead Economist for Malaysia, Dr. Apurva Sanghi. Anwar added that institutional reforms had been strengthened with a greater emphasis on transparency, governance, and professional execution.
He highlighted how political stability has enabled the government to implement progressive measures, including efforts to address poverty and improve governance. Anwar affirmed the government's commitment to doing more, particularly in improving education quality, enhancing transparency, and strengthening economic management.
He concluded by emphasizing that sustained reforms are crucial to ensuring Malaysia remains resilient amidst global economic and geopolitical challenges. The forum, organized by the Higher Education Ministry in collaboration with BNM, concentrated on the financial sector's role and structural reforms in driving the economy.