Anwar meets KJ, experts on country's economic direction

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin, economists, as well as industry experts this evening to discuss the country’s economic direction.

It was unclear what role Khairy, who was sacked by Umno in late January as part of a purge against dissidents to party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, played in the high-profile meeting. 

Umno vice-president Johari Ghani, who was previously the minister of finance II during former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak’s tenure, was also present.

In an Instagram post, Anwar said the meeting was part of the government’s ongoing efforts to seek ideas and views from all walks of life on the nation’s economy.

“The discussion also touched on new growth and methods to strengthen the investment ecosystem.

“All the views shared will certainly be used to form the Madani economic narrative, which is being drafted to shape the direction of the country’s economy in the medium and long term,” he said.

On Monday, Anwar said the Madani economic narrative would be launched in August as a guide for a clearer direction of the country’s economy.

Among others who also attended the meeting were Malaysian Institute of Economic Research chairperson Mohd Effendi Norwawi; economist Nungsari Ahmad Radhi; Malaysian Inclusive Development and Advancement Institute-Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia director Noor Azlan Ghazali; Treasure secretary-general Johan Mahmood Merican and secretary-general of the Economy Ministry Nor Azmie Diron.

Anwar added that the economists present at the meeting today agreed that the government is racing against time to overcome challenges that plague the country’s economy in order to get Malaysia back on track.

“I understand that any reform requires discipline and patience. It also requires confidence and courage to do new things and make tough decisions for the benefit of the people and the country.

“However, this government is determined and will work hard to drive inclusive and sustainable growth.

“Economic growth is not about numbers alone, but working on the needs of the people.” - Mkini