KUALA LUMPUR: The country’s improving economic performance and strengthening ringgit have created a “feel-good factor” among Malaysians of all backgrounds, said Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The deputy prime minister said this positive atmosphere serves as a catalyst for the people to remain united and support the government’s aspirations for greater national unity.
He said economic stability is crucial in maintaining harmony within a pluralistic nation like Malaysia.
“As part of the unity government, we must maintain this spirit of harmony. We must collectively uphold this diversity so that Malaysia remains peaceful.
“With a strong economic upturn and improving exchange rates, the people will continue to stay united in supporting the government’s goals,” he said during an Umno breaking-of-fast event today.
Also present were Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, the party’s vice-presidents, and leaders from Barisan Nasional (BN) component parties.
The Statistics Department recently reported that the Malaysian economy is expected to remain resilient through the second quarter of 2026.
This is supported by the Leading Index (LI) for December 2025, which rose marginally by 0.1 per cent to 114.0 points from 113.9 points in the same period the previous year.
Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin reportedly said the economy’s resilience would be bolstered by progressive new economic developments and the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 initiative, which is expected to stimulate local businesses and the tourism sector.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd