Focus on internal strength

The Star

06-05-2025

PM: We cannot rely on external support if we want to move forward
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's progress must be anchored on its own internal strength and the development of its domestic economic resilience, instead of relying on external factors amid global uncertainties, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said he had told Parliament during Monday's special sitting to discuss the 24% US tariff on Malaysian products that the country should take a firm stance but reject any form of unilateral action.
'If Malaysia wants to move forward and stand confidently, we must not only rely on external support.
'We must build internal strength, which is what we call domestic economic resilience. That is what we must work on,' he said.
The Prime Minister was speaking at the launch of employment opportunities and presentation of East Coast Rail Link Industrial Skills Training Programme (PLKI-ECRL) offer letters for ECRL operation and maintenance phase yesterday.
Anwar said that Malaysia must always seek new methods in dealing with any challenges.
'This responsibility lies with our youth. They must master knowledge better than the current generation.
'God willing, with this kind of approach, we will be more secure in the future. The country must remain peaceful, stable and governed by clear policies,' he said.
Citing a few examples, Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said that he had held meetings with leaders and corporations from various countries, including the United States, Japan and Bahrain.
It's official: Anwar at the launch of the ECRL event in Kuala Lumpur. He was accompanied by Transport Minister Anthony Loke. — LOW BOON TAT/The Star
For instance, he said a discussion was held yesterday morning with Advanced Micro Devices, one of the leading semiconductor companies from the United States, which had been operating here for quite some time.
'In the semiconductor sector, we are not left behind. However, the technology we are currently working with is still primarily focused on the backend.
'It's limited to manufacturing and processing capabilities. It doesn't yet include what's known as advanced packaging or advanced design.
'Now, amid all these ongoing discussions and challenges, the company stated their intention to make Malaysia their base for advanced packaging and advanced designs, specifically in Penang and Cyberjaya.
'And of course, I welcomed them,' he said, adding that the government will provide all the necessary facilities and government support.
Anwar also noted he had earlier met with Japan's former prime minister Fumio Kishida, who was sent on behalf of Japan's Prime Minister, to discuss new projects with Asean and Malaysia, particularly on new renewable energy.
'At a time when we're grappling with what steps to take next, companies from various countries are coming forward.
'Japan has also committed, on behalf of its Prime Minister, to directly participate in development projects,' said Anwar.
He added that he had met with two ministers from Bahrain to discuss plans on how they could enter the Malaysian market, invest and enhance their economic and trade capabilities.
At the end of the month, Anwar said that the country will host the Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit involving all the Asean countries and six Gulf nations.