Anwar praises Abang Johari's leadership, especially in spearheading change and progress in new technology

 KUALA LUMPUR:, Feb 5 2026: Premier Abang Johari Openg’s leadership has once again won the praise of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, especially in spearheading change and progress in the field of new technology.

Caption: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (centre) and Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg arriving at KLCC for the opening of Malaysian Ecnomic Forum 2026
 

"I am more impressed by the presence not only of fellow ministers, but also by the support of figures such as the premier who is another figure who is quite forward in driving change and progress in the field of new technology," he said, quoted by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).

Anwar was speaking at the  opening of the Malaysia Economic Forum (MEF) 2026 which was held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC today.

Malaysian Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said MEF 2026 is the main platform for he government together with stakeholders to set the direction of the country's economy.

According to him, the forum emphasises the implementation of evidence-based policies that will be directly channeled into the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).

Also present at the event were Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof, cabinet ministers, industry leaders and representatives of the corporate and academic sectors.

For the record, FEM 2026 is the second edition of the Malaysian Economic Forum and is now recognised as the country's main platform in driving the socio-economic agenda.

Themed “Accelerating Growth, Advancing Malaysia”, this year's forum focuses on efforts to accelerate national development in line with the aspirations of the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030).

FEM 2026 brings together stakeholders to discuss various strategic issues including economic policy, investment, artificial intelligence (AI), sustainable energy, talent development, affordable housing, healthcare reform and preparedness for an ageing population.

The forum is expected to play an important role in shaping the country's economic strategy to ensure inclusive and resilient growth.