Perak: The state government is conducting a comprehensive study on the cost of living in Perak following the impact of the conflict in West Asia to assess the actual effects on the people, as well as to formulate appropriate intervention measure.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Women, Family, Social Welfare, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Committee chairman Datuk Salbiah Mohamed said the study involves comprehensive data collection across various aspects for a more accurate picture of the impact. The study is under her portfolio and is still at an early stage for the social sector, while the preliminary findings for entrepreneurship have been obtained. Identifying groups affected by the conflict is deemed important, with findings expected within the next few months and a more comprehensive assessment likely in the middle of this year.

She mentioned that the findings from the study would be brought to the attention of two special committees addressing the issue, namely the Special Committee on Crisis Impact and the Crisis Impact Monitoring Committee. Salbiah added that the findings will aid the state government in assessing and developing appropriate initiatives to assist affected groups, especially the low-income groups.

The study, conducted through the Perak Women's Development Secretariat (SWP) together with Institut Darul Ridzuan, aims to evaluate three main areas: the impact of rising oil prices, the effects of global economic uncertainty, and the burden of living costs borne by households in Perak.