Kuala lumpur: Positive economic data have reinforced the position and strength of the ringgit, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. He noted that the currency’s appreciation also reflects confidence in Malaysia’s economic system, in line with the nation’s improving economic indicators.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that the strengthening of the ringgit should not be viewed in isolation but must be considered alongside rising investment, incomes, and lower unemployment. He stated that overall economic data point to a positive trend, which in turn bolsters the ringgit’s position and resilience. Anwar made these remarks during Question Time at the Dewan Rakyat, responding to a supplementary question from Datuk Dr Ku Abd Rahman Ku Ismail (PN-Kubang Pasu) regarding the factors behind the ringgit’s gains against the US dollar and its impact on the country’s exports and imports.

He further explained that the ringgit’s strength has not hindered trade flows, and the government will continue to strengthen the economy, manage key economic policies, curb the deficit, and attract investment. Anwar acknowledged that while a stronger ringgit generally brings positive effects, there are minor concerns related to the export and import of goods. However, he stressed that no country wants its currency to weaken or fall below its intrinsic value.

At 8 am Tuesday, the ringgit was traded at 3.9650/9750 against the US dollar, compared with 3.9615/9670 at Monday’s close. The ringgit was last seen at this level in May 2018.