Malaysia’s Q2 GDP growth shows economy is resilient, says Anwar

 Prime minister says Putrajaya’s reforms and policies over the past three years have strengthened the country’s economic fundamentals.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the government is committed to balancing growth, public well-being and fiscal responsibility.

PETALING JAYA:

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia’s economic growth of 5.8% in the second quarter of 2026 reflects the country’s resilience amid global uncertainties.

In a Facebook post, Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said the advance estimate for gross domestic product (GDP) growth was stronger than the 5.4% recorded in the previous quarter and exceeded the median forecast of 5.2% by economists.

“The Malaysian economy continues to demonstrate resilience despite global geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions and trade uncertainties,” he said.

“Reforms and policies implemented by the government over the past three years have strengthened the country’s economic fundamentals and enabled Malaysia to face these challenges with greater confidence.”

Anwar said the achievement reinforced the government’s commitment to continue pursuing reforms, strengthen economic resilience, and balance growth, public well-being and fiscal responsibility.

He added that the government would continue working to ensure the country’s economic strength translated into more quality jobs, higher incomes and a better standard of living for Malaysians.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued by the finance ministry, Anwar said the government was aware that encouraging economic growth had not fully eased the pressures faced by many Malaysians and MSMEs affected by the fallout from the Middle East conflict.

He said the government has stepped up efforts to cushion the impact on households, maintain the supply of essential goods, and ensure businesses could continue operating.

Despite uncertainties ahead, Anwar said the government would remain focused on protecting livelihoods, promoting sustainable growth and strengthening Malaysia’s economic resilience while upholding fiscal responsibility. - FMT