TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced a series of new measures aimed at addressing public concerns over the rising cost of living.
Among the steps he introduced were direct cash assistance for all adult Malaysian citizens and a reduction in fuel prices.
As reported by Channel News Asia, the announcement comes ahead of a planned large-scale protest in Kuala Lumpur scheduled for this Saturday. The protest is intended to demand Anwar’s resignation over rising prices and the perceived failure to deliver on promised reforms.
Earlier this year, Anwar’s administration introduced several policies to boost income and productivity. These included raising the minimum wage, adjusting electricity tariffs for companies, and introducing new sales taxes on certain imported and luxury goods.
Anwar emphasized that these policies target large businesses and wealthy individuals. However, critics argue that these added costs could eventually burden lower- and middle-income citizens as companies pass on expenses to consumers.
During Wednesday’s announcement, Anwar said that all Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above will receive a one-time cash aid of RM100, or roughly Rp 385,000. The funds will be available for withdrawal starting August 31, 2025. The total allocation for cash aid in 2025 now stands at RM15 billion, up from the previously planned RM13 billion.
Anwar also stated that fuel prices at gas stations would be reduced from RM2.05 to RM1.99 per liter. However, he noted that foreign nationals would be required to pay market prices without subsidies. He did not provide further details on how the policy would be enforced.
Meanwhile, political tensions in Malaysia continue to escalate. Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad called on Anwar to step down, citing his failure to manage the country’s challenges.
According to The Rakyat Post, Mahathir said that although Anwar was elected through democratic means, there is precedent for leaders to resign voluntarily under public pressure.
“I myself resigned as prime minister due to pressure from my party. Now Anwar is facing broader public opposition, so he should step down immediately,” Mahathir said during a speech.
In response, Anwar dismissed the resignation calls and stated that he would only step down if a vote of no confidence is passed by parliament.
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