[UPDATED] Subsidies to be discussed to target those who need them: Anwar

PUTRAJAYA – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has mooted targeted subsidies among initiatives to further reduce the rising cost of living as his first agenda after chairing the National Action Council on Cost of Living (Naccol) here today.

He explained that such efforts aim to further assist poor and vulnerable communities rather than a blanket subsidy system that also benefits the rich while straining government’s coffers.

“I have no issues with subsidies, especially for the poor – but it must be targeted.

“Take for example the fuel subsidies which the rakyat enjoys now but also benefit the rich.

“I gave them (the council) two weeks to discuss it in detail, including engaging with the private sector to make them understand that subsidies are to help the poor and the rich should not take advantage,”' he said during a press conference after chairing the meeting today.

However, Anwar assured that the government will look into providing other incentives for the rich and businesses to build their wealth.

Anwar then explained that the council will present their findings to the cabinet, once it is formed, and respective ministers will determine the best course of action.

Civil service’s commitment lauded

Anwar expressed gratitude towards the civil service for their commitment to aiding him in governing the country.

This is after Anwar only expected the core team to attend the Naccol meeting.

However, all committee members were present at today’s meeting despite it being held on a weekend, and on the eve of a public holiday.

“Today is quite extraordinary because I only suggested to the chief secretary (to the government Tan Sri Mohd Zulki Ali) to meet with the core team, but he was kind enough to inform everyone who had participated. I am deeply touched and encouraged by this sentiment expressed by our public servants,” Anwar said.

“To show their commitment under short notice, many of them cancelled their plans with their families because this is my priority.”

Among the officials present today were Zuki, Bank Negara Malaysia governor Tan Sri Nor Shamsiah Mohd Yunus, officials from the Statistics Department, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, Finance, Agriculture and Food Industries, and the Energy and Natural Resources ministries.

Anwar, also Tambun MP, was sworn in as the country’s 10th prime minister on November 24, and has made addressing the cost of living of Malaysians his first agenda. – The Vibes, November 27, 2022