Patience, collaboration key to facing fuel price surges, says Anwar

Anwar also hit out at the opposition for blaming Putrajaya for the current economic crisis and disruptions to fuel supply.

“This is not our fault, but some (leaders) from the opposition are now mocking us. By right, everyone should be coming together to seek solutions.

“The whole world is in trouble. It is important that we remain patient and understand the problem,” he said at a community engagement programme held at the Permatang Pasir community hall.

Opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin yesterday lamented the 80 sen increase in diesel prices to RM4.72 per litre ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

The Larut MP said the increase would have a ripple effect, especially on transport costs, driving up the price of goods.

He added that while the public was aware global oil prices had spiked due to the Middle East conflict, the impact on Malaysians needed to be addressed in the Dewan Rakyat.

Address ethnic dissatisfaction properly

Anwar also placed emphasis on the need to properly address grievances among the nation’s various ethnic groups to preserve multiracial harmony and peace.

“We need to remember that Chinese, Indians, Malays, as well as Sabahans and Sarawakians, have their own grievances. That is normal. We need to negotiate and resolve these issues properly.

“That is why I say leaders need to stay informed about such matters. They should not only care about themselves and their personal wealth,” he said.

Anwar yesterday praised a peace initiative by Muslim and Hindu NGOs, which held the first in a series of meetings aimed at finding common ground on several issues, including the construction of places of worship without proper approval.

He said the initiative embodies the core values of Malaysia’s social fabric by rejecting divisive actions and promoting mutual respect.