Unity-driven independence key to overcome global economic challenges - Anwar

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Malaysians to preserve the spirit of independence by building a more mature society, strengthening national identity and maintaining unity among the country’s diverse communities.

Speaking at the launch of the 2026 National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign at the Sultan Azlan Shah Institute of the Ministry of Health Malaysia in Ipoh today, Anwar said the sacrifices made by earlier generations must be honoured by continuing efforts to build a nation that determines its own direction and safeguards the welfare of its people.

"Independence must be given meaning and there is a process to it, which is the process towards maturity. Why do we want independence? Because we want to be free, we do not want to be colonised and we want to govern and protect the interests of our own people," he said.

Anwar said Malaysia’s success was built on the collective efforts of Malays, Chinese, Indians and the various ethnic communities in Sabah and Sarawak who contributed towards the country’s independence and development.

He said that after almost seven decades of independence, Malaysians should focus on elevating the nation’s status and strengthening collective well-being instead of being trapped in debates over differences.

"Could independence have been achieved without the cooperation of the Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups? No. That is why we must give meaning to independence through the strength of Malays together with Chinese, Indians, Dayaks, Kadazans and all Malaysians," he said.

The Prime Minister warned against attempts to exploit racial, religious or social differences to divide the country.

"Do not allow anyone to undermine and divide us because this country achieved independence through the collective strength of all Malaysians," he said.

Anwar also urged Malaysians to embrace the philosophy of "Bersekutu Bertambah Mutu" introduced by Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, the late Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, describing it as a foundation for unity in diversity.

He said the principle represented more than a slogan, serving instead as a basis for people of different races, religions, cultures and regions to live together and contribute towards national progress.

On the economy, Anwar reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s economic foundations and protecting public welfare despite rising global pressures.

"Although the world is facing economic uncertainty and soaring oil prices, we are using the strength of the country's economy to ensure that the welfare of the people continues to be protected," he said.

He said the government had maintained affordable RON95 petrol and diesel prices through targeted subsidies to cushion the impact of rising global oil prices on Malaysians.

The Prime Minister said the pressures were linked to higher international oil prices, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions, including instability in the Gulf region and concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.

Anwar said the government would continue providing assistance through programmes such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) and school aid, with total allocations exceeding RM20 billion.

He said the allocation demonstrated the government’s commitment to ensuring national wealth was redistributed to benefit the people, particularly vulnerable groups.

"This is an effort to give meaning to independence by ensuring that the country's wealth strengthens its economic position and is channelled back to the people," he said.

Anwar also recognised the contribution of civil servants, noting that many had not received salary adjustments for 12 years before recent reforms were introduced.

He said phased salary increases and pension adjustments were implemented as recognition of their service and contribution to national development.

Looking ahead, Anwar said Malaysia would continue investing in high-value sectors, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and green technology, to strengthen economic resilience and support sustainable growth. - July 19, 2026