KUALA LUMPUR, June 1 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today conveyed his highest appreciation to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, for his patronage and wisdom in guiding the nation under the principles of Constitutional Monarchy and Parliamentary Democracy.

Anwar said under His Majesty’s patronage, the Madani Government continues to move forward with dedication and confidence in carrying out its responsibilities to govern the country.

He said the government remained strong through the loyalty and unity of Malaysians, who continue to uphold the spirit and determination to build the nation despite various challenges, including racial divisions.

“The Madani Government stands firm through the loyalty and unity of the people, who are united in their resolve to build the nation despite storms and racial sentiments.

“It is this wisdom inherited from our forefathers and independence fighters that gave rise to the Constitution, which provides for a system that justifies the existence of the monarchy as the protector of Islam while guaranteeing justice and equality for all citizens,” he said.

The prime minister said this in his speech during the investiture ceremony in conjunction with the King’s official birthday celebration at Istana Negara today.

Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, also graced the ceremony. 

Among those present were Anwar’s wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail; Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi; members of the Cabinet, including Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil; and members of the diplomatic corps.

The prime minister said the government would continue its efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law, in line with Sultan Ibrahim’s emphasis on good governance and curbing the concentration of wealth among a select few

“The government remains committed to implementing fair policies and ensuring equitable distribution across all states and regions, particularly for the poor and marginalised,” he said.

Touching on global uncertainties, including economic pressures, climate change, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and increasingly complex regional geopolitical developments, Anwar said the government continues to undertake various measures to safeguard national stability and ease the burden on the people.

He said navigating the country through these challenges requires prudent policymaking and effective measures aimed at maintaining stability while mitigating the impact on ordinary Malaysians.

“Among the initiatives introduced are prudent spending measures, the targeted RON95 fuel subsidy mechanism and the BUDI Madani programme,” he said. 

The prime minister said targeted assistance programmes would continue to be refined, alongside efforts to strengthen the social safety net and address rising living costs in a prudent manner to ensure greater stability and well-being for the people.

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the country’s economy continues to record encouraging growth, supported by rising investments and low unemployment, strengthening foreign investor confidence despite global headwinds.

“Prudent fiscal reforms, the empowerment of small and medium enterprises, and the digital transformation agenda have created new opportunities and quality jobs, particularly for the younger generation,” he said.

Concluding, Anwar expressed his gratitude for Sultan Ibrahim’s reign, describing His Majesty as a symbol of unity and national dignity.

The prime minister also prayed for Their Majesties and members of the Royal Family to be blessed with good health, well-being and continued wisdom in carrying out their duties.

“The people will continue to pledge their unwavering loyalty to His Majesty and strengthen their collective resolve and efforts towards the nation’s progress and prosperity,” he said.

The investiture ceremony marked the third time Sultan Ibrahim conferred Federal awards, honours and medals since His Majesty was installed as King on July 20, 2024. — Bernama