KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged Malaysians to manage their finances prudently and avoid excessive spending as global economic pressures intensify following the war involving Iran.
He said the government is closely monitoring the situation as geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions begin to strain the global economy, including pushing up the price of goods.
“Everything is soaring. For now, the government is holding meetings to find ways to protect the people,” he said.
“But I want to give an early reminder: spend carefully, save, and be prudent. Even though we may feel comfortable now, the situation around the world is in turmoil. Not just one country, but dozens.”
Anwar said the conflict has worsened global economic conditions, noting that oil prices have already doubled.
“I want to maintain petrol at RM1.99. I don’t know how long we can hold it. Pray that we can sustain it because oil prices have already doubled,” he said during the opening of the Masjid Mengkuang Titi and the Nuzul Quran 1447H celebration in Permatang Pauh today.
During his speech, Anwar also addressed the recent arrest of several youths suspected of being influenced by extremist ideology linked to the Daesh militant group.
He said the situation remains under control and praised the police for acting swiftly.
“The Inspector-General of Police has spoken about a group of youths aged 18 and 19 influenced by external propaganda linked to ISIS, including attempts to teach bomb-making in the name of establishing an Islamic state,” he said.
“I am grateful the situation is still under control because the police were efficient in identifying the threat. But we must not become complacent.”
Earlier, the Royal Malaysia Police said it had foiled attempts to revive Daesh ideology in the country with the arrest of six youths, including three minors, in a special operation.
Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the suspects, aged between 16 and 21, were detained in raids carried out by the Special Branch over two days beginning February 14 in the Klang Valley, Johor, Kedah and Terengganu. — March 7, 2026