Putrajaya: Efforts to alleviate the cost of living faced by the people will be among the government's primary directions next year, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar highlighted that government measures include ensuring targeted subsidies and cash assistance, as well as increasing the minimum wage to alleviate the burden of rising daily living costs.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar explained that the government is implementing initiatives such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), Jualan Rahmah, and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA), totaling RM15 billion. These contributions are intended to help citizens cope with living costs. Anwar emphasized these measures as unprecedented steps, contrasting them with the opposition's previous inaction.
During a briefing with local and international media editors-in-chief, Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, stated that the government will focus on reforms, efforts to strengthen fiscal responsibility through new legislation, and preparations for the upcoming general election. Anwar also mentioned that starting next year, the government will address sensitive and controversial issues more boldly, ensuring efficiency in enforcement and decision-making for the benefit of the nation.
Anwar expressed confidence in national institutions, noting the Attorney General's decision not to defend major criminal misconduct in the country. He mentioned the possibility of prosecuting offenders in the Melaka shooting case under Section 302 of the Penal Code, stressing the importance of restoring confidence in national institutions.
Similarly, Anwar emphasized that enforcement agencies like the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) require firmer and more effective execution of their processes. He also warned against distorted narratives involving race and religion that threaten national harmony, advocating for firmer action on issues of race, language, and the economy.
Anwar defended the appointment of a non-Malay minister to lead the Ministry of Federal Territories, highlighting the collaborative efforts to aid the community irrespective of race. He also reiterated the government's commitment to empowering Bahasa Melayu while recognizing the importance of English and other languages in a globalized world.
Commenting on the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) issue, Anwar maintained that the matter should be viewed within the broader context of national history and the education system, rather than as a simple matter of rejection or acceptance.
In closing, Anwar announced that he will issue a comprehensive statement regarding the nation's direction for the coming year and beyond on January 5.