Anwar Expresses Gratitude As Ringgit Hits Strongest Level In Over Seven Years

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed gratitude over the ringgit’s appreciation against the US dollar, saying “Alhamdulillah” when asked to comment on the local currency’s strongest performance in more than seven years.

He said this to reporters at the launch of the 120th Anniversary Celebration of the National Audit Department here.

The ringgit opened at 3.9850/9950 against the greenback at 8 am on Monday, strengthening from last Friday’s close of 4.0045/0080. 

The currency last traded at a similar level on May 24, 2018, when it touched 3.9797 against the US dollar.

The ringgit extended its rise following improved risk appetite after Bank Negara Malaysia maintained the overnight policy rate last week amid a weaker US dollar index.

On Saturday, Anwar was reported as saying that the ringgit’s strong showing, among the best-performing currencies in Asia at present, reflects the effectiveness of sound governance, political stability and growing investor confidence in Malaysia’s economic direction.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, further attributed the stronger ringgit to the government’s continued efforts to safeguard national stability, ensure efficient administration and take firm action against corruption and misappropriation.

Also present at the event were Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Auditor-General Datuk Seri Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi.

-- BERNAMA