KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 13 — The federal and state governments must strengthen cooperation under the proposed National Covenant framework to ensure more sustainable, equitable and balanced development, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.

He said the framework, outlined in Budget 2027, was a key focus of the 150th Meeting of Menteri Besar and Chief Ministers, which he chaired today.

The proposed covenant aims to strengthen federal-state cooperation and promote more inclusive development and public well-being.

“Amid global economic uncertainties, national growth projections and fluctuations in global oil prices, the budget must continue to protect the people, address the rising cost of living and take into account each state’s priorities, including border security, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak,” he said in a Facebook post today.