Malaysia: Malaysia has extraordinary potential to achieve faster progress if it continues to be governed well and cleanly, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said the country's current economic performance showed that Malaysia was on a strong footing, driven by administrative stability and investor confidence in government policies.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, stated that the country's economic growth performance, particularly in the fourth quarter of last year, exceeded the government's expectations. Anwar expressed his surprise at the figures obtained for the final quarter of last year, noting that while the government expected economic growth of around 5.4 to 5.5 percent, Malaysia recorded a growth of 6.4 percent. He shared these insights while officiating the groundbreaking ceremony for an additional building at the Pontian Hospital and Rakyat MADANI Carnival.

Also present at the event were Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan, and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

Anwar emphasized that the achievement was not political propaganda but rather reflected the strength of the country's economic fundamentals and the effectiveness of policies implemented by the government. He credited the success to the commitment of civil servants and enforcement agencies in ensuring national stability and progress. Anwar highlighted that the country would continue to prosper if its leadership remained committed to the principles of good governance.

Furthermore, he addressed the need for firm leadership and continuous commitment from all parties to combat crime, including smuggling and drug trafficking. Anwar also encouraged Muslims to increase charitable giving and good deeds during Ramadan to strengthen unity and social harmony.