On September 30, 2024, YB Rafizi Ramli, Malaysia's Minister of Economy, opened the National Symposium 2024 at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre, advocating for collective action to eradicate poverty in the country. He emphasized the need for collaboration among government, private enterprises, and civil society, stating, "This is not just a meeting; it is a crucial moment for us to unite our efforts in eradicating poverty." Rafizi highlighted positive economic indicators but stressed the importance of ensuring that growth benefits vulnerable populations.
This call for action aligns with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's recent emphasis on nation building and the private sector's role in economic growth, as discussed during The Edge Billion Ringgit Club dinner on September 16, 2024. Anwar acknowledged the challenges posed by inherited fiscal imbalances and stressed the need for innovative solutions and collaboration between public and private sectors to foster economic resilience. He also highlighted Malaysia's upcoming chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 as an opportunity to promote regional economic integration.
In light of these developments, the Malaysian Alliance of Civil Society Organizations (MAPIM) has called for cross-political support to revitalize the economy. MAPIM's appeal comes as the ringgit strengthens against major currencies, reaching RM4.19 against the US dollar following a 1.9% Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase and a 50 basis point interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve. Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid, MAPIM's president, underscored the importance of cooperation among political parties, economists, and civil organizations, urging them to prioritize economic growth over political interests.
Rafizi reaffirmed the government's commitment to the MADANI Economic Framework, which aims for inclusivity and sustainability. He expressed hope that the symposium would produce actionable insights for future policies, stating, "Our goal is not just to talk about poverty; we need to develop concrete solutions that will lead to meaningful change in the lives of Malaysians." This holistic approach to poverty eradication complements Anwar's focus on sustainable economic practices and food security. Both leaders emphasize the need for a united front in addressing economic challenges and ensuring that growth benefits all segments of society. [e4c06860] [d7351f6a] [b1474b72] [09dcc0b7] [7c462be5] [f58fb84f]