The Madani government enters the next general election with stable governance, solid economic performance and a proven record of responsible leadership.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Madani government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has delivered “stability, clarity and responsible leadership” amid global uncertainty, Paya Besar MP and BBC chairman Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah said.
He told theSun the government demonstrates “maturity, discipline and the courage to make difficult decisions that prioritise Malaysia’s long-term future”.
“Under the leadership of the prime minister, the government has shown something Malaysians have long asked for – maturity, discipline and the courage to make difficult decisions.
“This is not a government that avoids tough choices, it faces them head-on with fairness and social responsibility at its core.”
Mohd Shahar said the administration has maintained strong economic fundamentals despite what he described as a “polycrisis world” marked by geopolitical tensions, economic shocks, climate pressures, supply chain disruptions and lingering inflation.
He also cited key indicators such as 4.4% GDP growth in the first half of 2025, unemployment at 3.0% and RM190 billion in approved investments – a 19% year-on-year increase.
Mohd Shahar said major international rating agencies like Moody’s, S&P and Fitch have reaffirmed Malaysia’s stable outlook, signalling confidence in the country’s policy direction under the Madani framework.
“These indicators show the world has confidence in Malaysia’s policy direction.”
He highlighted the government’s fiscal approach, blending responsibility with empathy and its commitment to reducing the fiscal deficit to 3.5% of GDP by 2026 while supporting vulnerable groups.
Initiatives include Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) assistance totalling RM15 billion, ongoing investments in education, health, TVET and targeted subsidies including Budi95, diesel rationalisation and electricity support.
“At the same time, enforcement actions have recovered RM15.5 billion from leakages and corruption. This combination of discipline and empathy is the hallmark of the Madani philosophy.”
Mohd Shahar noted Budget 2026 continues the structural reform trajectory set since Budget 2023, aligned with the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
“Reforms like SST expansion, phased e-invoicing, the global minimum tax, dividend income tax and excise duties on sugar-sweetened beverages are not politically easy, but they are necessary for transparency, competitiveness and sustainability.”
He also highlighted Malaysia’s push into high-value sectors such as semiconductors, digital development, artificial intelligence and green energy.
“This is how we raise the nation’s ceiling by positioning Malaysia in industries that create high-income jobs. In addition, the regional allocations, RM6.9 billion for Sabah and RM6 billion for Sarawak, show the government’s commitment to balanced development.
“We are seeing economic resilience, disciplined fiscal management and reforms that balance growth with social justice. Malaysia is on the right path, firm, fair and future-focused,” he said.
He added that the Unity government is heading into the next general election from a “position of strength”, backed by stable governance, solid economic performance and a proven record of responsible leadership.
“Political stability is not something you declare, it is something you demonstrate through performance, consistency and delivery.
“Over the past two years, the Unity government has shown that it can govern responsibly, manage the economy prudently and introduce reforms that prioritise long-term national interest over short-term political gain.”
Mohd Shahar said the Unity government’s majority in Parliament remains firm, but what matters even more is the cohesion among its partners.
“A solid majority is important, but cohesion is what sustains stability.
“The coalition partners understand the importance of maintaining a united front for the country’s stability and economic recovery.
“When MPs see clear direction and responsible leadership, unity becomes self-sustaining.”
He added that the BBC continues to play an active role in strengthening cooperation between government MPs both in Parliament and on the ground.
“As people experience clearer communication, better services and meaningful assistance, their confidence grows, especially among middle-income households and the younger generation.”
He stressed that political stability is “earned, not claimed”, and the Unity government has earned it through action and delivery.
