ENSURING the rakyat are able to effectively cope with increases in living costs remains a priority for the Madani unity government, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Considering this, he hopes the ‘good news’ which he is to announce when Parliament reconvenes soon can bring relief to consumers, who are faced with higher living costs notably in food, consumables and healthcare.
Higher living costs is a global phenomenon, with each country experiencing their fair share of such a burden, said Anwar.
He hopes the important announcement soon (scheduled by next week), can ease the burden of the average person.
“Now, every evening the Finance Ministry team is examining measures to be announced soon and can help address the people’s problems.
“If not Monday, Tuesday… give me two, three more days to refine it. I will announce it soon. Pray for the best, God willing,” the finance minister said at the launching of the state Bumiputra masterplan, Tunas Madani internship programme and the state Bumiputra development council's three affordable housing projects.
According to the Tambun MP, the government is currently looking for the best approach to balance the rising costs of living with the country’s fiscal capacity, given that existing expenditure on assistance such as the Rahmah Cash Contribution (STR) and civil servant salary increases has reached billions of ringgit.
On July 14, Anwar hinted through a post on Facebook with a poster reading “Coming Soon”, along with the message: “An Extraordinary Appreciation for Malaysians. With Malaysiaku.”
The post caught the attention of netizens who expressed excitement and anticipation for the announcement which is expected to provide benefits to the working class.
Anwar said that addressing the living costs issue is central to his administration with every measure being considered to alleviate the burden of the people.
Anwar also singled out that the country's relatively stable political outlook, means it can be an effective voice of the Third World developing nations. – July 19, 2025