PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has instructed all government departments to stop using imported goods, particularly food items, at official events in a bid to promote local products and support the national economy.
Speaking at the Ministry of Finance’s monthly assembly in Putrajaya today, Anwar emphasised that prioritising locally sourced goods at government functions would expand opportunities for domestic producers, especially farmers.
“If every government department enforces this directive, it means farmers will have greater opportunities to produce and supply local ingredients,” Bernama quoted him saying.
Citing examples from regional neighbours, Anwar praised countries such as Laos, Vietnam and Thailand for their unwavering commitment to using local produce at state functions.
“In all the official functions I’ve attended in Laos, Vietnam and Thailand, I have never been served imported food. It’s automatic for them — they ensure everything is local,” he remarked.
The Prime Minister also criticised the ongoing preference among some officials for imported goods, despite previous clear instructions.
He said such practices run counter to the spirit of empowering Malaysia’s local economy and urged civil servants to be more mindful of the need to support domestically sourced products.
“This is about aligning our actions with our values. We must support our own producers — it’s not just about economics, but about national pride and sustainability,” he added. - - June 20, 2025
