The persistent increase in fuel prices is a global phenomenon that necessitates a unified approach from both the government and the opposition. UMNO Youth Chief, Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, stated that these price hikes are not arbitrary decisions made by the administration but are instead dictated by the fluctuations of the international oil market. He emphasised that rather than politicising the issue, all political entities should focus on finding practical solutions for the benefit of the public.
In a statement shared via social media on Thursday, Dr Muhamad Akmal noted that while past administrations faced severe criticism and ridicule regarding fuel costs, the current situation requires a more mature political discourse. He argued that the welfare of the citizens should take precedence over using economic challenges as a tool for political manipulation. The objective is to ensure that the public is well-informed about the external factors influencing the domestic economy.
To facilitate this collaborative effort, UMNO Youth will be organising the National Roundtable Discussion 2.0 (Rimbun 2.0) in the near future. This upcoming forum is designed to bring together a diverse group of experts, including economists, oil and gas professionals, and industry players directly affected by the rising costs of fuel. The initiative aims to create a platform for constructive dialogue away from partisan bickering.
Dr Muhamad Akmal extended an open invitation to representatives from both the government and the opposition to attend the session with an open mind. He stressed that the current economic climate is not the time for political leaders to engage in conflict, but rather a time to reach the best possible decisions for all Malaysians. The focus of the roundtable will be to formulate concrete proposals that can be formally presented to the government.
The leadership of UMNO Youth reaffirmed that the goal of Rimbun 2.0 is to provide viable solutions rather than empty promises. By gathering professional insights and industry feedback, the organisers hope to develop a strategic framework to mitigate the impact of global fuel price volatility on the local population. This collective approach is seen as a vital step towards ensuring national economic stability.
