Malaysia’s economic indicators are very encouraging despite the Pakatan Harapan (PH) administration being a new government, said Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng.
Among others, he pointed out that Malaysia’s foreign direct investment increased by 250 per cent to RM49 billion (US$11.8 billion) in the first nine months of 2018. Exports also rose to a record RM96.4 billion, he said. Inflation, meanwhile, was at a low of 1.2 per cent in the first nine months of 2018, Lim said.
“We must bear in mind that the global economic situation is facing more severe challenges compared with those faced by us in Malaysia,” he said in a new year’s message posted on his Facebook page on Monday (Dec 31).
“Therefore, we are convinced that if the rakyat (people) are united, regardless of race, religion or background, we will be strong and stable as a nation in overcoming all future economic challenges.”
Lim said that government aimed to improve welfare schemes such as the Health Protection Fund, which gives income replacement payments to those of lower income who are admitted to hospital.
The economic well-being of the rakyat will continue to be emphasised by the government, as the government will continue to provide aid to the Felda settlers, the rubber tappers, and those who are working in small towns and cities.
“We are the government for all Malaysian citizens. A new year calls for a new aspirations for all, and let us together make 2019 not just a year for Malaysia to recover but one that provides a beacon of hope for our children,” he added.
Channel NewsAsia
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