I am wearing batik in winter, Anwar informs Japan PM

 

Anwar Ibrahim will not let winter stop him from promoting Malaysian-made products when he attends the Asean meeting in Tokyo, Japan.

The prime minister said that his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida had told those attending that “there is one night… we can wear suits or official attire”.

“I sent a note saying that I would like to wear Malaysian batik despite it being winter there now. This is because I feel responsible for promoting Malaysian-made goods,” he was quoted as saying by Bernama.

Anwar said this in his speech when launching the Malaysian Goods Carnival 2023 in Putrajaya, where he called for more efforts to promote Malaysian products locally and abroad to stimulate economic growth.

Citing another example, the prime minister said he made it a weekly routine to visit stalls and local eateries on Fridays for lunch.

“Before Friday prayers, I visit stalls and eateries and eat at local shops.

“This is a way to promote Malaysian products,” he said, adding that he has been doing this since he became prime minister on Nov 24 last year.

‘I don’t feel inferior eating at stalls’

Anwar also urged government officials to make extra efforts in promoting and supporting Malaysian products.

“Ministers, deputy ministers, secretaries-general and all other friends, take further steps (to promote Malaysian goods), there must be effort.

“I myself do not feel inferior if I choose to eat in stalls every week… the coffee and food served there sometimes can be more tasty than five-star restaurants,” he added.

Anwar also advised Malaysian goods producers to continue improving the quality of their products to compete with foreign companies.

“Scores of local companies have penetrated international networks, not only in Asean but also in several European countries,” he said.

Regarding the Malaysian Goods Carnival that takes place for four days from today, Anwar said the event has helped boost economic growth.

“The Buy Malaysian Goods campaign also promotes moderately-priced goods compared to imported ones. This will help allevate the local economy,” he added. - Mkini