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Opposition leader urges govt to tackle cost-of-living challenges

KUALA LUMPUR: The opposition leader today called on the government to address the pressing cost of living issues faced by the people.

Larut member of parliament (MP) Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin, in debating the Supply Bill 2025 in Dewan Rakyat, emphasised the need to heed the people's concerns.

"Listen to the people and do not be a government that is labelled as 'lembu kenyang' (unbothered)," he said amid applause from opposition MPs.

Commenting on the 2025 Budget, he said the focus should be directed towards creating new engines of economic growth, rather than solely expanding existing taxes, introducing new taxes and cutting subsidies.

He said while the government had announced various positive data, the reality on the ground showed that many families were still struggling to make ends meet.

"Every time the budget is presented, the people hope for lower living costs, jobs and economic opportunities, quality health and education, affordable housing, strong social security and good infrastructure.

"They want subsidies on rice, flour and fuel to ease their daily expenses. They also seek stricter price controls to prevent manipulation, along with expanded cash assistance for all who need it," he said.

Rantau Panjang MP Datuk Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff, who interjected during Hamzah's debate, said she saw the reality of the people's lives every day.

"As a mother in a rural area, I see firsthand what YB (Hamzah) mentioned is exactly what is happening on the ground.

"Even though the government is proud of the 1.9 per cent inflation rate, the people do not feel it; in reality, life is becoming increasingly difficult and burdensome.

"I want to refer to a news report from Harian Metro on Aug 24, where a woman was found in weak condition in Taman Indah, Sungai Abong, Johor, next to the bodies of her father and brother who had died from hunger," she said.

She expressed hope that such incidents would receive the attention of the government.

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