KUCHING – The MADANI 2026 Iftar Ceremony in Kuching brought together the Federal and Sarawak leadership, underscoring the values of unity, justice, and resilience during the holy month of Ramadan.
Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, addressing the gathering, reminded attendees that Ramadan is not only a month of worship but also a spiritual school that nurtures piety, strengthens brotherhood, and fosters togetherness across races and religions. He emphasised that these values must remain central to national life.
The Prime Minister also highlighted global challenges, noting that conflicts in the Gulf and Persian regions have disrupted supply chains and driven up oil prices. In response, the government has taken steps to shield Malaysians from rising costs, including maintaining the price of RON95 petrol at RM1.99, despite increases in neighbouring countries.
“Our principle is clear that when the people are facing cost of living pressures, the government’s responsibility is to ensure that the burden is not transferred to them,” he said.
He further stressed that Malaysia’s strength lies in domestic resilience, urging stronger work ethics, improved governance, and innovation across all sectors. Citing economist Joseph Schumpeter’s concept of ‘creative destruction’, he encouraged Malaysians to turn crises into opportunities through courage and adaptability.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Johari Openg praised the close cooperation between the Federal and Sarawak governments, which has enabled issues to be resolved constructively. He noted that discussions with the Prime Minister during the Kuching Division Development Meeting had produced positive outcomes.
“Alhamdulillah, with unity and camaraderie between the Federal Government and the Sarawak Government, it seems that the problem has been resolved and settled. We discussed amicably and found a solution together,” he said.
The Premier also highlighted Sarawak’s Basic Needs Contribution (SKAS) programme, which has allocated RM650 million to assist low-income households. He explained that the initiative complements federal measures to ease cost-of-living pressures while supporting economic stability and attracting foreign investment.
On international matters, the Premier expressed confidence in the Prime Minister’s diplomatic role, noting that leaders of Muslim countries had sought his input on resolving pressing global issues. He said such efforts could have a major impact on political and economic stability worldwide.
The event was attended by senior leaders, including Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Haji Fadillah Yusoff, Senate Speaker Senator Dato’ Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Sarawak State Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.
The ceremony reinforced the message that unity between federal and state leadership, coupled with resilience at home, is key to navigating global uncertainties while ensuring the welfare of the people.
