PUTRAJAYA, August 6 - Ringgit’s outstanding performance in Asia is the result of the strength in the domestic economy and measures taken by the government.

According to the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, measures taken include introduction of Fiscal Responsibility Act and targeted subsidy.

“The backbone of this is the Ministry of Finance family, including the ministry itself, Bank Negara Malaysia, the Securities Commission, Bursa Malaysia, government-linked Investment Companies (GLIC) and Petronas.

“...Everything and having stocks. The stocks are the things that cause us to be seen as persuasive, therein lies the strength,” Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim made these remarks during the launch of ASEAN 2025 and the Ministry of Finance monthly assembly here.

In the meantime, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that regarding the target subsidy, even though such measures might not be popular, they are necessary to ensure that there will be no leakages and to reassure investors through the image of a responsible government.

Concurrently, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also urged the Ministry of Finance Communication Unit to be more aggressive and proactive in educating the public about the government’s effort in managing the national debt.

“We cannot blame anyone for not understanding because sometimes we do not play a role in educating them and shedding light on economic matters," Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.