MALAYSIA must adopt a non-partisan, inclusive approach involving all stakeholders through the establishment of a dedicated platform such as a National Economic Consultation and Intervention Council to address the growing impact of global economic uncertainty, particularly in the wake of escalating conflict in West Asia.
Perikatan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar said the prolonged geopolitical tensions are beginning to exert direct pressure on the global economy, including Malaysia, contributing to rising energy prices, supply chain disruptions and increased logistical and operational costs across multiple sectors.
"Malaysia requires a non-partisan approach that prioritises national interests over partisan political considerations, including the need to be more inclusive and action-oriented.
"I propose the full involvement of all parties, including the government, the opposition, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), academics, industry players, and representatives of civil society in a forum such as the National Economic Consultation and Intervention Council," he said in a statement.
Samsuri, who is also the Menteri Besar of Terengganu, said such a mechanism is essential to ensure that national decisions reflect collective interests rather than narrow political considerations.
He stressed that the issue at hand is not political but one of national survival, adding that Malaysia must avoid fragmented responses in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
"This approach is not about politics, but about the survival of the nation. In a world that is becoming increasingly uncertain, Malaysia cannot operate in a fragmented manner along partisan lines.
"Instead, we must bring together the strength of the entire nation, transcending political differences and backgrounds, to face these challenges collectively.
"When the nation’s economic stability and the welfare of the people are at stake, our priority must be Malaysia’s well-being and resilience,” he said.
He warned that the cascading effects of global instability are unavoidable and expected to intensify in the coming months, with potential increases in the prices of essential goods, food, transportation and utilities.
"Moreover, a greater impact is the risk of pressure on the employment sector, including the possibility of workforce reductions in affected industries," he added.
The Kemaman Member of Parliament cautioned that without proactive policy intervention, the risk of layoffs could rise, particularly in manufacturing, logistics and small and medium-sized enterprises, which are most vulnerable to rising input costs. - March 22, 2026
