Kuala lumpur: The government will hold a special Cabinet meeting on Friday to review the country's fiscal position and closely monitor developments in Iran following the conflict in West Asia. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that the meeting is necessitated by escalating tensions in the region, which could potentially impact the global economy, including Malaysia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the meeting will allow Cabinet members to assess the country's fiscal health, stay updated on real-time developments, and decide on future actions for the government. Anwar emphasized that the MADANI Government is seriously considering the potential threats to the country's economic stability and the well-being of Malaysians. He shared these insights during a special press conference addressing the ongoing West Asia conflict.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, explained that the conflict, sparked by attacks from Zionist Israel and the United States on Iran, has now entangled several other regional countries. He mentioned his proposal to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to ensure the conflict remains contained and does not affect neighboring nations, with attacks remaining concentrated on Israel.
Expressing gratitude, Anwar acknowledged Iranian President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for their assurances to prevent the conflict from spreading. He also appreciated Gulf country leaders for engaging in discussions with Malaysia. Furthermore, he thanked members of parliament from different parties for their support and joint statement regarding the attacks on Iran.
The Prime Minister recognized the efforts of the National Security Council, the Foreign Ministry, Malaysian diplomatic missions in West Asia, and other security and aviation authorities in facilitating the safe return of Malaysians stranded due to the conflict. Anwar announced that the first group of evacuees, comprising 163 Malaysians and seven non-citizen family members, returned safely on a Malaysia Airlines aircraft chartered by the MADANI Government.