Accra:The federal and state governments must enhance their cooperation under the proposed National Covenant framework to achieve sustainable, equitable, and balanced development, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The framework, which is a central element of Budget 2027, was a primary focus of the 150th Meeting of Menteri Besar and Chief Ministers chaired by Anwar.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the proposed covenant seeks to bolster federal-state cooperation and promote inclusive development and public well-being. Amid global economic uncertainties, national growth projections, and fluctuations in global oil prices, Anwar highlighted the importance of the budget in protecting the populace, addressing the rising cost of living, and considering each state's priorities, including border security, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak.

Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, underscored the need to align development plans and allocations with actual needs, emphasizing the improvement of public service delivery, infrastructure development, strengthening state economies, and implementing projects that directly benefit the people. The meeting also covered the significance of post-quantum cryptography in enhancing the protection of national data and digital systems against future cybersecurity threats.

On the issue of transboundary haze, Anwar urged Indonesia to take prompt and effective action against open burning, stressing that decisive measures are crucial as the haze poses a threat to public health, especially impacting schoolchildren and disrupting education. As of 3 pm today, 22 areas nationwide recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, leading to the closure of all schools in Johor, Melaka, and Negeri Sembilan tomorrow. Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek announced that closures would also affect schools in several districts in Selangor, Pahang, Sabah, and Sarawak, while schools in other regions will continue to operate as usual.