Tambun: 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.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that this neutral and open approach is crucial to safeguarding national interests amidst the ongoing geopolitical uncertainties affecting the global economy. He asserted that Malaysia does not rely on the approval of any major power for its national policy decisions but instead acts as a sovereign nation. "We must be friends with everyone.Malaysia is a free and independent country, and we decide our own policies," he declared at the Jalinan Mesra MADANI programme held at Taman Perpaduan Koperasi Tambun, within the Masjid Ar-Rashid compound.
The event was graced by the presence of Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar. Anwar highlighted Malaysia's strong ties with Arab and Gulf nations, including Iran, which facilitate ongoing communication and cooperation while ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for shipping.
Despite Malaysia's relatively small size, Anwar expressed gratitude for the outreach from Arab and Gulf countries, including the President of Iran. He also mentioned Malaysia's ongoing humanitarian efforts in Gaza, Palestine, which include missions to deliver food supplies and medical aid. Anwar has been in contact with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to ensure the Rafah route remains open for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, where the population faces severe hunger.
In a related announcement, the Selangor Menteri Besar's Office disclosed that Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari will lead the Malaysian Humanitarian Mission to Gaza, representing the Prime Minister. Organized by the Malaysian Consultative Council for Islamic Organisation (MAPIM), the mission will deliver 30 containers carrying 374 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
In addressing the global energy crisis, Anwar stated that the government is actively seeking solutions and focusing on supporting 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," he remarked, emphasizing the daily efforts of the National Economic Action Council.
During the event, the Prime Minister presented a mock cheque of RM400,000 to Masjid Ar-Rashid Taman Perpaduan, Tambun, for facility upgrades. Additionally, Anwar distributed raya clothing donations to orphans from Yayasan Amanah An-Nur Maisarah, Darul Ulum Al Mahfuz, and Sekolah Menengah Tahfiz Darul Ridzuan.