MADANI Government Expands Support for Small Businesses Facing Rising Costs

PUTRAJAYA, 13 May — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday chaired the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) meeting, which focused on strengthening Malaysia’s preparedness and economic resilience in facing the ongoing global supply crisis and rising cost of living. During the meeting, several strategic proposals and initiatives were discussed, including measures to reduce rental rates for business premises under the supervision of local authorities (PBTs) nationwide. Anwar stressed that more local authorities should emulate the efforts already implemented by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and MARA in lowering rental rates for traders and premise occupants, particularly to ease the burden faced by hawkers and small business operators affected by increasing operating costs. “The MADANI Government has begun implementing rental reductions through DBKL and MARA. This compassionate approach should serve as an example for other local authorities across the country in safeguarding the welfare of the people and ensuring the continuity of small businesses amid increasingly challenging global economic conditions,” he said. The Prime Minister added that the meeting also reviewed several strategic measures aimed at addressing global economic uncertainty, including the development of a Global Supply Crisis Monitoring Dashboard and proposed policy improvements related to supply management and price control. Taking into account the impact of the global crisis on the prices of daily necessities, Anwar instructed all ministries to restructure and strengthen existing initiatives, assistance, and intervention efforts to ensure aid reaches targeted groups effectively, especially the poor and vulnerable communities. He reiterated that MTEN will continue prioritising efforts to guarantee supply continuity and protect the rakyat, particularly vulnerable groups and small traders, from the effects of global economic shocks. “The government remains committed to ensuring no one is left behind as we navigate these global economic challenges together,” he said. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

PUTRAJAYA, 13 May — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday chaired the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) meeting, which focused on strengthening Malaysia’s preparedness and economic resilience in facing the ongoing global supply crisis and rising cost of living. During the meeting, several strategic proposals and initiatives were discussed, including measures to reduce rental rates for […]

PM Anwar Ibrahim Announces Immediate Cost-of-Living Measures Amid Global Supply Concerns

KUALA LUMPUR, May 5 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today announced a series of immediate measures following a National Economic Action Council (MTEN) meeting, as the government moves to address rising cost-of-living pressures amid concerns over a looming global supply crisis. Speaking after the meeting, Anwar said the MADANI Government is taking proactive steps to ensure targeted assistance reaches those most affected, particularly farmers, small businesses, and low-income communities. Among the key initiatives introduced is “Defending the Field,” which includes a RM200 upfront payment under the Special Paddy Incentive Assistance scheme to help ease farmers’ cash flow and support agricultural operations. To mitigate the effects of extreme weather on food production, the government will also intensify cloud seeding operations, with coordinated efforts involving the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM) and the Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA) in critical areas. In support of small and medium enterprises, Anwar announced a reduction in rental rates for business premises owned by federal agencies. Local authorities (PBT) have also been urged to follow suit, taking a cue from measures already implemented by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). Additionally, the Rahmah MADANI Sales Programme will be expanded on a weekly basis to more locations nationwide, with increased participation from small traders to ensure affordable essential goods remain accessible to the public. “The government will continue refining its approach to ensure assistance is more targeted and effective, so that every initiative truly reaches the people on the ground,” Anwar said. He expressed confidence that Malaysia can weather the current economic challenges through collective responsibility, compassion, and firm resolve. -- MINUTESMY -- CREDIT: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

KUALA LUMPUR, May 5 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today announced a series of immediate measures following a National Economic Action Council (MTEN) meeting, as the government moves to address rising cost-of-living pressures amid concerns over a looming global supply crisis. Speaking after the meeting, Anwar said the MADANI Government is taking proactive steps to […]

PM ANWAR IBRAHIM UNVEILS BOLD NATIONAL STRATEGY TO SHIELD MALAYSIANS FROM GLOBAL ENERGY CRISIS

KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday announced a comprehensive and decisive national strategy following a high-level meeting of the National Economic Action Council (MTEN), aimed at protecting Malaysians from the prolonged global energy crisis. Describing the situation as “prickly and expected to persist,” Anwar stressed that the government’s top priority is safeguarding the welfare of the people while maintaining discipline and realism in all policy measures. At the heart of the immediate response is ensuring uninterrupted supply of energy and essential goods. The Prime Minister highlighted the critical role of PETRONAS, alongside early-stage planning, to guarantee sufficient supply in the coming months. To ease the burden of rising costs, the government will expand diesel subsidies, targeting farmers, smallholders, and individual vehicle owners. This move is expected to cushion vulnerable groups from the impact of global fuel price volatility. In tandem, demand-side measures are being intensified. These include improving energy efficiency and implementing Work From Home arrangements for civil servants starting immediately. Enforcement operations—dubbed “Cold Ops”—will also be ramped up to combat hoarding and smuggling activities that threaten national fuel supply stability. Looking ahead, Anwar emphasized a strategic shift toward renewable energy to reduce dependence on imported fuels. Biodiesel has been identified as a practical near-term solution, with plans to gradually increase the blend rate to B15 using existing infrastructure. “This allows us to act immediately while preparing for more advanced systems in the future,” he said. The Prime Minister also added that Malaysia’s strong industrial base and domestic capacity will not only stabilize current supply but also strengthen long-term energy resilience. “Insya-Allah, with determination, discipline, and unity, we will overcome this challenge together,” Anwar affirmed. The announcement signals a coordinated national effort to navigate global uncertainties while ensuring the stability of Malaysians’ daily lives. -- Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris -- Credit: FB Anwar Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday announced a comprehensive and decisive national strategy following a high-level meeting of the National Economic Action Council (MTEN), aimed at protecting Malaysians from the prolonged global energy crisis. Describing the situation as “prickly and expected to persist,” Anwar stressed that the government’s top priority is […]

MTEN Reviews Global Energy Crisis Impact, Government Reaffirms Economic Resilience

KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 — The National Economic Action Council (MTEN) convened today to conduct an in-depth review of the escalating global energy crisis and its potential impact on Malaysia’s economy and the welfare of its people. The council highlighted that the global landscape is entering a more volatile and uncertain phase, driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in West Asia, which continue to pressure global energy supply and prices. Malaysia, it noted, is not immune to these developments. In response, the government stressed the need for heightened preparedness, discipline, and unity among all stakeholders. Officials cautioned against complacency, urging Malaysians to remain vigilant and resilient in facing the challenges ahead. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reiterated that despite external uncertainties, Malaysia’s economic fundamentals remain strong. He emphasized that the MADANI Government will continue to take proactive measures based on current data and real-world developments, including engaging closely with industry players and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to ensure well-balanced and effective policy decisions. At the same time, the public has been encouraged to play a crucial role in strengthening the domestic economy. Supporting local products and businesses was highlighted as a key strategy to build internal resilience against global shocks. The government also assured that maintaining a stable energy supply remains a top priority. Continuous efforts will be made to ensure that economic activities proceed smoothly while safeguarding the well-being of the rakyat. With a focus on responsibility and public interest, the administration expressed confidence that Malaysia can navigate the global energy crisis through collective effort, sound policies, and strong national unity.

KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 — The National Economic Action Council (MTEN) convened today to conduct an in-depth review of the escalating global energy crisis and its potential impact on Malaysia’s economy and the welfare of its people. The council highlighted that the global landscape is entering a more volatile and uncertain phase, driven by ongoing […]

Gov’t Ready To Face Economic Implications From Prolonged Conflict In West Asia – MKN

KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) -- The government is continuing its preparations to face a prolonged conflict situation in West Asia, which is expected to have economic implications not only for Malaysia but globally. The National Security Council (MKN) said that the government will adopt a comprehensive and coordinated approach to manage the situation, and the matter was among the key focuses discussed during today’s special MKN meeting held to address the impact of ongoing uncertainty in the region. The special meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, will be followed by a special National Economic Action Council (MTEN) meeting tomorrow to deliberate on further measures. “Malaysia welcomes recent developments where all parties involved have halted attacks for five days, and views this window as an opportunity for serious and sincere negotiations. “The meeting noted that these latest developments have led to a decline in international oil prices,” the council said in a statement today. In addition, MKN stressed that Malaysia will continue to play a proactive role in contributing towards resolving the conflict by maintaining close relations with international counterparts. “Today, the Prime Minister held telephone conversations with leaders from New Zealand, Japan, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. “Malaysia has several key attributes to play this role. For instance, with the exception of Israel, Malaysia maintains good relations with all major parties involved. Its consistent stance, neutrality, and frank approach have earned it respect,” the council said. The meeting also emphasised national security issues, including intelligence agency activities in Malaysia, prevention of fuel smuggling, and monitoring the condition of Malaysian peacekeeping forces (MALBATT) currently deployed in Lebanon. The council added that the Malaysian government will continue taking proactive measures to ensure national security and safeguard the welfare of its people during this challenging period. Regional tensions have escalated since the United States and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28.

KUALA LUMPUR — The government is continuing its preparations to face a prolonged conflict situation in West Asia, which is expected to have economic implications not only for Malaysia but globally. The National Security Council (MKN) said that the government will adopt a comprehensive and coordinated approach to manage the situation, and the matter was […]