Tag: Anwar Ibrahim

Malaysia Secures Egypt’s Cooperation to Deliver 374 Tons of Aid to Gaza via Rafah

KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced that Malaysia has obtained cooperation from Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to facilitate the delivery of 374 tons of Malaysian humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Rafah Border Crossing beginning this April. Following recent discussions, President El-Sisi reportedly gave a clear assurance and commitment to ease access for the aid, enabling its swift distribution to more than 100,000 residents in Gaza who are in urgent need of assistance. The Prime Minister stressed that Malaysia remains resolute in its humanitarian mission and will not be deterred by any obstacles, including actions linked to the Israeli regime, which he said have hindered such efforts. He added that at a time when the global community faces growing criticism over inaction and double standards, Malaysia will continue to uphold a principled stance in الدفاع of the oppressed, particularly the Palestinian people. Anwar also called on Malaysians to pray for the smooth delivery of the aid and the safety of those involved, expressing hope that the humanitarian assistance will reach its intended recipients without delay.

KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced that Malaysia has obtained cooperation from Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to facilitate the delivery of 374 tons of Malaysian humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Rafah Border Crossing beginning this April. Following recent discussions, President El-Sisi reportedly gave a clear assurance and commitment to ease access for […]

PM Anwar Concludes Jakarta Visit After Meeting With Prabowo

JAKARTA, March 27 — Anwar Ibrahim wrapped up a one-day working visit to Jakarta after holding talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Istana Merdeka. The meeting, which began at 4.30 pm local time, took place amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia. After the discussions, Prabowo personally accompanied Anwar to Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in a gesture reflecting the close ties between the two nations. Anwar departed Jakarta at about 7.15 pm, concluding his first visit to the Indonesian capital this year. The trip was made at Prabowo’s invitation following a phone conversation between the two leaders on March 23. Both leaders have maintained active engagement, having held five high-level meetings last year, including the 13th Malaysia-Indonesia Annual Consultation held in Jakarta on July 28. In a statement after the meeting, Anwar said Malaysia and Indonesia agreed to step up diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in West Asia, prioritise the protection of civilians, and create room for negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting peace. Amid ongoing global uncertainty, both countries also underscored the importance of strengthening regional unity to maintain peace, stability, and economic resilience. During the nearly two-hour discussion, the leaders highlighted the need to ensure global supply chains and key trade routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, remain secure and uninterrupted. -- PHOTO: FB Anwar Ibrahim

JAKARTA, March 27 — Anwar Ibrahim wrapped up a one-day working visit to Jakarta after holding talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Istana Merdeka. The meeting, which began at 4.30 pm local time, took place amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia. After the discussions, Prabowo personally accompanied Anwar to Halim Perdanakusuma Airport […]

Rising Oil Prices Expected to Boost EV Adoption in Malaysia, Says CIMB Securities

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) is likely to gain momentum בעקבות rising global crude oil prices, particularly among buyers in the premium internal combustion engine (ICE) segment, according to CIMB Securities Sdn Bhd. In a research note released today, the firm projected that EV adoption across the country will accelerate in 2026, driven in part by the anticipated launch of the Proton e.MAS 5. Continued tax incentives for locally assembled (CKD) EVs are also expected to support this growth. At the same time, CIMB Securities noted that the recent temporary adjustment to the BUDI95 fuel quota is unlikely to significantly impact the mass market segment. This is because most national car models are designed with smaller engines and are more fuel-efficient. Based on estimates from the Malaysian Road Safety Research Institute, private vehicles in Malaysia average about 28,000 kilometres annually. Looking at the country’s top-selling models in 2025—Perodua Bezza, Axia, Myvi, Alza, and Proton Saga—the firm estimates yearly fuel consumption to range between 1,100 and 1,500 litres. Even when accounting for higher usage, CIMB Securities said the revised BUDI95 quota still provides sufficient capacity for most drivers. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently announced that the monthly individual limit for BUDI95 fuel purchases will be temporarily reduced from 300 litres to 200 litres starting April 1, citing ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. He added that the adjustment is expected to have minimal impact on the public, as average monthly fuel consumption is حوالي 100 litres, with nearly 90 percent of consumers using less than 200 litres per month.

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) is likely to gain momentum rising global crude oil prices, particularly among buyers in the premium internal combustion engine (ICE) segment, according to CIMB Securities Sdn Bhd. In a research note released today, the firm projected that EV adoption across the country will accelerate in 2026, […]

Malaysia, Indonesia Strengthen Unity, Push Diplomatic Efforts on West Asian Conflict — PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said a meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has opened a constructive platform for both nations to find common ground in addressing the ongoing West Asian conflict, which continues to pressure global energy security and economic stability. Anwar said the discussions underscored the importance of strengthening regional unity between Malaysia and Indonesia, particularly in navigating global uncertainties while preserving peace, ensuring stability and enhancing economic resilience for the well-being of their people. Both leaders agreed to intensify diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions, safeguarding civilian lives and reopening negotiation channels towards a peaceful and lasting resolution. At the same time, Anwar stressed the need to ensure that global supply chains and key strategic trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, remain unaffected amid the conflict. He added that Malaysia will continue engaging with international leaders as part of broader efforts to express solidarity, align positions and assess the global impact of the crisis, particularly on energy and regional security. “Malaysia maintains its firm stance, rejects terrorism, upholds international law and urges all parties to return to the path of peace,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said a meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has opened a constructive platform for both nations to find common ground in addressing the ongoing West Asian conflict, which continues to pressure global energy security and economic stability. Anwar said the discussions underscored the importance of strengthening […]

‘Hebatkan Perniagaan Malaysia’ Main Focus Of First 100 Days In KUSKOP – Steven Sim

KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 (Bernama) — Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong has placed “Hebatkan Perniagaan Malaysia” as the central thrust of his first 100 days leading the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry (KUSKOP), highlighting a series of key achievements aimed at strengthening the nation’s business landscape. Sim said the ministry’s early progress includes expanding access to financing, empowering micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and enhancing the national entrepreneurial ecosystem. “A hundred days in KUSKOP together with Malaysian entrepreneurs. Thank you KUSKOP staff, you delivered. I have only a single focus: Hebatkan Perniagaan Malaysia. We want to ‘Power Up’ Malaysian businesses, regardless of race and religion — Power Up, Jalan Teruih!” he said in a Facebook post today. Among the highlights, financing for Bumiputera entrepreneurs under Tabung Ekonomi Kumpulan Usaha Niaga Nasional (TEKUN Nasional) was increased from RM300 million to RM500 million. A new RM100 million financing scheme was also introduced through SME Bank and Bank Rakyat to support Chinese MSMEs. Additionally, funding for Indian entrepreneurs under the Indian Community Entrepreneur Development Scheme was raised from RM30 million to RM50 million. The minister also rolled out targeted financing initiatives, including the RM50 million Ramadan dan Perniagaan Rakyat Financing Scheme (BARAKAT) for Bumiputera MSMEs, the RM30 million Chinese-owned Micro Entrepreneur Special Financing Programme (BERKAT) for Chinese New Year, and the RM3 billion Women Entrepreneur Economy Fund (DEWI), which is expected to benefit 300,000 women entrepreneurs nationwide. On the international front, a business agreement worth RM2 billion was secured during the Makkah Halal Forum 2026, while participation in Japan Foodex generated RM90 million in sales. Efforts to strengthen the cooperative sector were also intensified, with RM254 million allocated — the highest in history — alongside the introduction of the Business School Malaysian Skill Certificate (SKM) to transform school cooperatives into business learning platforms for students. — MinutesMY / Igneseous Noris — PHOTO: FB Steven sim

KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 (Bernama) — Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong has placed “Hebatkan Perniagaan Malaysia” as the central thrust of his first 100 days leading the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry (KUSKOP), highlighting a series of key achievements aimed at strengthening the nation’s business landscape. Sim said the ministry’s early […]

Ringgit Strengthens on Government’s Pragmatic Fuel Subsidy Adjustment Amid West Asia Tensions

KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian ringgit opened higher for the fourth consecutive day, following the government’s announcement of a measured approach to fuel subsidies aimed at balancing fiscal discipline with cost-of-living concerns amid ongoing West Asian tensions. At 8am, the local currency rose to 3.9855/4.0050 against the US dollar, up from Thursday’s close of 3.9920/3.9955. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in a special message yesterday, announced that effective April 1, the individual monthly quota for the BUDI95 fuel programme will be temporarily reduced from 300 litres to 200 litres per month due to the geopolitical situation. The adjustment is expected to have minimal impact on most Malaysians, as average consumption remains around 100 litres monthly, with nearly 90 percent using less than 200 litres. Anwar also confirmed that Iran has permitted Malaysian oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, easing supply concerns. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Chief Economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the move demonstrates the government’s commitment to balancing fiscal responsibility with household welfare amid global market pressures. “This is a positive development for the ringgit, reflecting timely government action in response to the fallout from tensions in West Asia,” he said. SPI Asset Management’s managing partner Stephen Innes noted that the temporary reprieve granted by US President Donald Trump on potential attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure has eased safe-haven demand for the US dollar, providing further support to the ringgit. The local currency also strengthened against other major and regional currencies. It rose against the Japanese yen to 2.4951/2.5077, the British pound to 5.3143/5.3403, and the euro to 4.5969/4.6194. Against ASEAN currencies, it gained against the Singapore dollar at 3.0994/3.1148, the Thai baht at 12.0868/12.1566, the Indonesian rupiah at 235.7/237.0, and the Philippine peso at 6.61/6.65. The ringgit’s sustained momentum reflects market confidence in Malaysia’s proactive economic measures despite ongoing global uncertainties.

KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian ringgit opened higher for the fourth consecutive day, following the government’s announcement of a measured approach to fuel subsidies aimed at balancing fiscal discipline with cost-of-living concerns amid ongoing West Asian tensions. At 8am, the local currency rose to 3.9855/4.0050 against the US dollar, up from Thursday’s close of 3.9920/3.9955. […]

Maintaining BUDI95 Fuel Quota for E-Hailing Drivers Seen as Key to Cost Stability

KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 — The decision to retain the Budi MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) fuel quota of up to 800 litres per month for e-hailing drivers and gig workers has been welcomed as a timely measure to help stabilise operating costs amid global uncertainties. Malaysian e-Hailing Coalition (GEM) Chief Activist Masrizal Mahidin said the move would not only ease financial pressures on drivers but could also boost demand for e-hailing services, particularly following the temporary adjustment to BUDI95 eligibility set to take effect next month. He noted that the revised quota for general eligibility — reduced from 300 litres to 200 litres per month starting April 1, 2026 — may encourage more urban commuters to opt for e-hailing services instead of using private vehicles, potentially increasing drivers’ income opportunities. Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the adjustment in response to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, while maintaining the subsidised fuel price under the BUDI95 initiative at RM1.99 per litre to cushion the impact on the public. Masrizal stressed that while maintaining the higher quota for e-hailing drivers offers immediate relief, long-term strategies are needed to address rising fuel costs driven by global oil price volatility. Among the proposals highlighted were incentives to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), along with improved infrastructure, social protection measures, insurance coverage, emergency funds and skills training to strengthen the resilience of gig workers. Meanwhile, Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) Chief Executive Officer Dr T. Saravanan said the decision reflects the government’s awareness of the challenges faced by those whose livelihoods depend heavily on fuel usage. He added that maintaining the 800-litre quota is crucial in ensuring market stability, while preventing misuse or excessive purchases that could disrupt fuel supply. Saravanan also called on consumers to remain patient and understand the necessity of the temporary quota adjustment, describing it as a prudent step towards safeguarding energy security, ensuring stable supply and promoting responsible fuel management.

KUALA LUMPUR — The decision to retain the Budi MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) fuel quota of up to 800 litres per month for e-hailing drivers and gig workers has been welcomed as a timely measure to help stabilise operating costs amid global uncertainties. Malaysian e-Hailing Coalition (GEM) Chief Activist Masrizal Mahidin said the move would not […]

Malaysia appreciates Egypt’s contribution towards de-escalation in West Asia – PM Anwar

Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to elevating bilateral relations with Egypt to a Strategic Partnership following a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. During the call, Anwar conveyed Aidilfitri greetings while both leaders exchanged views on the evolving situation in West Asia. Malaysia expressed concern over the ongoing conflict and commended Egypt’s role in encouraging de-escalation, dialogue and an immediate cessation of violence. On the Palestinian issue, Malaysia reiterated its support for Egypt’s efforts in providing assistance to Gaza and stressed that any peace initiative must include a continued ceasefire and uninterrupted humanitarian access. The Prime Minister also sought Egypt’s support for Malaysia’s planned 2026 humanitarian aid mission, which is expected to be carried out through the Rafah border crossing in the near future.

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to elevating bilateral relations with Egypt to a Strategic Partnership following a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. During the call, Anwar conveyed Aidilfitri greetings while both leaders exchanged views on the evolving situation in West Asia. Malaysia expressed concern […]