Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's initiative to meet with all Chief Ministers, Premiers, and Menteri Besar to discuss the nation's economic outlook is being hailed as a proactive measure in addressing the West Asia crisis.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad expressed that the move is crucial to ensure that the perspectives of all states are taken into account when formulating strategies to navigate increasingly complex global economic challenges. Saarani highlighted the importance of unity, stating, 'This is not the time for finger-pointing. Whoever is in office will face the same challenges, so we must confront them together.' He made these remarks at a press conference after officiating the Rumah Perakku Kota Malim Prima launch.
Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar announced plans to convene top leaders from each state, including political party representatives, for a special briefing expected to be held next week. The briefing, which will be delivered by the National Security Council (MKN) and the National Economic Action Council (MTEN), aims to discuss coordinated measures to maintain economic sustainability and national security amid ongoing uncertainties in West Asia.
Saarani further emphasised the necessity of close cooperation between the federal and state governments to ensure that decisions are comprehensive and benefit all segments of society.
Meanwhile, in Gerik, UMNO secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki stated that the party will propose several measures at the upcoming meeting, specifically targeting immediate actions to alleviate the cost-of-living pressures affecting the public. He expressed confidence that next week's special briefing offers an ideal platform to address issues of utmost importance to the populace.
Asyraf Wajdi, who also serves as Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) chairman, pointed out that given the current situation shaped by global challenges and international uncertainties, the government must prioritise the welfare of citizens in its plans and actions. Addressing opposition calls for a special sitting of the Dewan Rakyat, he asserted that the focus should be on swift executive action rather than parliamentary debates.
Reports also mentioned that opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin had formally submitted a request to the Prime Minister to convene a special sitting, under Article 11(3) of the Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders.