Global energy crisis: Malaysia sets its own policies, maintains good ties, says Anwar

IPOH (April 4): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to maintaining good relations with all countries while determining its own policies as an independent nation, including in addressing the challenges of the global energy crisis.

He said this neutral and open approach is important to ensure that national interests are safeguarded, especially as geopolitical uncertainties continue to put pressure on the global economy.

Anwar stressed that Malaysia does not rely on the approval of any major power in determining its national policies, but instead makes its own decisions as a sovereign nation.

“We must be friends with everyone… Malaysia is a free and independent country, and we decide our own policies,” he said, when speaking at the Jalinan Mesra Madani programme at Taman Perpaduan Koperasi Tambun, held at the compound of Masjid Ar-Rashid, here, today.

Also present were Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

Anwar also noted that Malaysia’s good relations with Arab and Gulf countries, including Iran, enable continued communication and cooperation, while ensuring that the country’s shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz remain open.

“Although Malaysia is not a large nation, we are grateful that all the Arab and Gulf countries involved have reached out to us, including the President of Iran,” he said, adding that Malaysia continues to channel humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza in Palestine, including through missions to deliver food supplies and medical aid.

He has also been in contact with Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, to ensure that the route to Rafah remains open to allow humanitarian aid to be delivered to Gaza.

He said that the people in Gaza are facing hunger, and Malaysia remains committed to continuing its aid efforts as a sign of concern for their plight.

Yesterday, the Selangor Menteri Besar’s Office announced that Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari will represent the Prime Minister in leading the Malaysian Humanitarian Mission of 30 containers to Gaza and the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 mission.

Organised by the Malaysian Consultative Council for Islamic Organisation (MAPIM), the mission will deliver 30 containers carrying 374 tonnes of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.

Meanwhile, in another development, Anwar said that the government continues to seek the best solutions in addressing the global energy crisis, including paying attention to traders, farmers and fishermen.

“We are transparent – I am not saying there are no problems. How could there be no problems? Diesel prices have increased, but we are providing assistance to farmers, fishermen – everyone is being supported.

“We have ways to resolve this gradually… currently, the National Economic Action Council meets every day,” he said.

At the same event, the Prime Minister also presented a mock cheque for RM400,000 to Masjid Ar-Rashid Taman Perpaduan, Tambun, for the upgrading of the mosque’s existing facilities.

Anwar also distributed raya clothing contributions to orphans from Yayasan Amanah An-Nur Maisarah, Darul Ulum Al Mahfuz, and Sekolah Menengah Tahfiz Darul Ridzuan. – Bernama