Malaysia to continue on positive growth trajectory, says Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 5): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia will continue on a positive growth trajectory, one that is resilient, inclusive and governed with honour.

He said the country today stands on firmer ground, with gross domestic product (GDP) on track to grow by around 4.9 per cent in 2025, while inflation has been contained at 1.6 per cent.

“Investment confidence is returning as Malaysia stands on firmer ground, with GDP on track to grow and inflation contained – encouraging signs of disciplined fiscal management and renewed seriousness in governance,” he said in his keynote address at the official launch of Forum Ekonomi Malaysia 2026 here today.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.

Anwar who also the Finance Minister said the progress did not come about by chance but it reflects a deliberate effort to restore trust in public finances, credibility to institutions, and integrity in the exercise of power.

“Confidence does not respond to slogans or short-term measures. It responds to consistency, to clarity of intent, and to the assurance that reform is sustained rather than episodic.

“One visible signal of renewed confidence is the strengthening of the ringgit. External factors do play a role, but currencies ultimately reflect trust in institutions, in policy direction and trust that a country is governed with discipline and purpose,” he added.

He said that trust is being rebuilt because this MADANI Government has taken a clear, principled and uncompromising stand on governance.

“There will be no tolerance for corruption and no exceptions for the well connected. Without accountability, there can be no credibility, and without credibility, there can be no sustainable growth.

“We are strengthening institutions so that integrity does not depend on personalities, but on systems. Rules must outlast individuals, while reforms must endure beyond political cycles,” he said.

Meanwhile, Anwar said the energy transition is no longer optional but a practical response to changing global markets and rising expectations.

“To succeed, investors require clear rules, exporters must adjust, and institutions must provide stability.

“As Parliament prepares to consider the Climate Change Bill, we will pursue this transition in a manner that is orderly, evidence-based, and firmly anchored in national interest,” he added. – Bernama