Diesel, fertiliser shortages will affect economy, says PM

 Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysians must reinforce their resilience to navigate a potential downturn.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim delivering the opening address at the Ilmuwan Malaysia Madani forum on Muslim unity. (Bernama pic)

PUTRAJAYA:

 Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged Malaysians to strengthen their resolve to meet the economic challenges arising from shortages of diesel and fertiliser supplies in the months ahead.

Anwar said Malaysians must reinforce their resilience to navigate a potential economic downturn.

While the country is assured of an adequate supply of petroleum for the next few months, challenges such as diesel shortages and fertiliser supply issues could put pressure on the economy.

“I have appealed for a stronger commitment to deal with this potential worsening of the economy, due to spiralling costs, and probably a shortage of supply. We are fortunate because for the next few months we are sure of an adequate supply of petroleum, but we may confront more difficulties in diesel and fertiliser,” he said.

“I do not believe any problems are insurmountable. What we need is national resolve and to build strong resilience among our people,” he said in his opening remarks at the Ilmuwan Malaysia Madani forum on ‘Muslim Unity in Times of Geopolitical Crisis’ hosted by the higher education ministry.

He said Malaysia’s strength lies in its unity as a multiracial and multireligious nation, which serves as a key foundation in facing global uncertainties.

Anwar said the prolonged conflict in West Asia had far-reaching political and economic implications on the world, while Israel’s continued aggression, supported by the US, was a source of escalating humanitarian and regional crises. - FMT