Nation strengthens economic defences as global conflict and El Niño threats loom

MALAYSIA is reinforcing both its economic resilience and climate preparedness as the Federal and State governments move to counter growing external risks posed by geopolitical instability and the anticipated arrival of El Niño.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the 149th Meeting of the Menteri Besar and Chief Ministers centred on strategies to strengthen and revive the national economy amid challenges arising from the conflict in the Middle East, which continues to weigh on the global economic outlook.

The meeting also reviewed the country's readiness to respond to the expected El Niño phenomenon, with authorities assessing measures to mitigate its potential impact on water resources, agricultural production, food security, as well as the heightened risks of extreme temperatures and haze.

"Chairing the 149th Meeting of the Menteri Besar and Chief Ministers at the Parliament Building today. This meeting focused on various Government initiatives to strengthen and revitalise the national economy following the challenges and uncertainties arising from the conflict in the Middle East, which has affected the global economy.

"The meeting also reviewed the country's level of preparedness in facing the El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to affect water supplies, the agricultural sector, food security, as well as increase the risks of extreme heat and haze.

"Emphasis was also placed on ensuring that every policy and initiative is implemented in a more integrated, efficient and people-centred manner, while strengthening economic competitiveness, attracting high-quality investments and safeguarding the well-being of Malaysians throughout the country," Anwar said in a Facebook post.

Anwar said the meeting reaffirmed the importance of close cooperation between the Federal Government and State Governments to ensure national policies are implemented effectively and development is delivered equitably across the country.

"God willing, the spirit of unity and consensus demonstrated through this meeting will continue to strengthen relations between the Federal Government and the State Governments to ensure that the benefits of development are enjoyed comprehensively by all Malaysians," he added. - June 24, 2026