Sultan Ibrahim’s speech strengthens PM Anwar’s position amidst ongoing political tension.
SINGAPORE: Malaysia’s newly appointed king, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, delivered a significant maiden speech in Parliament on Monday (Feb 26), reinforcing political stability and backing Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s economic reforms, which may bolster the unity government’s standing.
During the opening of the third session of the 15th Parliament, Sultan Ibrahim addressed opposition lawmakers directly, stating that he would not entertain attempts to disrupt the nation’s political stability. His speech underscored the importance of supporting the current unity government, a veiled reference to ongoing efforts by the opposition Perikatan Nasional (PN) to destabilize the administration.
“I will not entertain any requests from anyone who tries to disrupt political stability,” Sultan Ibrahim asserted, emphasizing that the focus should be on governance, not political maneuvering. The statement resonated deeply with MPs, drawing applause from the House.
This declaration comes amid earlier reports in January of a so-called “Dubai Move,” where it was alleged that political figures met to persuade government MPs to defect and topple Anwar’s government. While this speculation has subsided, it was seen as a serious challenge to the stability of the unity government.
The king also expressed his concerns over Malaysia’s fiscal health, particularly the nation’s RM1.5 trillion debt, which constitutes 82% of its GDP. Sultan Ibrahim called for measures to improve the country’s financial position, urging the government to focus on fiscal responsibility and targeted subsidies. His message was clear: the government must adopt more cost-efficient measures to reduce debt and ensure sustainable growth.
At the same time, Sultan Ibrahim extended his support for Mr. Anwar’s ongoing economic reforms. The prime minister’s initiatives, such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap and the mid-term review of the 12th Malaysia Plan, are seen as crucial steps in addressing Malaysia’s economic challenges. Sultan Ibrahim also called for greater efficiency in government processes and a more attractive business environment to enhance Malaysia’s global competitiveness.
Economic experts, including Mr. Lee Heng Guie, an economist with the Socio-Economic Research Centre, noted that the king’s support would provide much-needed continuity for Anwar’s administration in implementing its economic reforms. However, they also highlighted that achieving the king’s vision of a positive fiscal position would require the government to focus on both controlling expenditure and expanding revenue.
As Malaysia continues to grapple with economic constraints and a volatile global environment, Sultan Ibrahim’s backing of the economic agenda is seen as a crucial signal of stability. His commitment to scrutinizing government spending and ensuring transparency further strengthens his role in the country’s political and economic future.
