Putrajaya: Malaysia will continue to intensify efforts to enter new markets to boost trade, thereby strengthening its position as a competitive trading nation. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of expanding into markets such as Europe, Latin America, and Africa to increase trade. He stated that focusing solely on existing strategic partners would not suffice for Malaysia’s success as a trading nation. This was highlighted during the closing ceremony of the Rancakkan MADANI Bersama Malaysiaku Programme.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Anwar reiterated that Malaysia’s existing trade relations with the United States and China, which currently have high trade volumes, will remain unchanged. However, he stressed the necessity for Malaysia to explore new markets to strengthen its economy and trading capabilities. Anwar highlighted the potential of growing intra-ASEAN trade among ASEAN countries and penetrating markets in Latin America and Africa.

The event was attended by both Deputy Prime Ministers, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, and other Cabinet members. Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and the Public Service director-general Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz were also present.

Prime Minister Anwar called on the Cabinet and civil servants to strive towards elevating Malaysia into a leading nation. He cited the country’s recent achievements, such as a 5.2 per cent growth in gross domestic product in the third quarter of 2025 and the ringgit’s performance as the best currency in Asia, as evidence of Malaysia’s progress. Anwar expressed confidence that maintaining this trajectory would solidify Malaysia’s status as a great country in Asia.

Additionally, Anwar expressed his gratitude to the Cabinet and all parties involved in the successful organization of the recent 47th ASEAN Summit.