KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said while not all government decisions and policies are popular or can deliver swift results, they are made with thorough consideration to benefit the majority of Malaysians.
The prime minister said this could be seen through the implementation of the rationalisation of diesel subsidies and electricity tariffs to stop longstanding leakages caused by blanket subsidies.
The measures, he said, were also in line with the Madani Economy framework launched in July 2023, which provided a clear direction to reshape Malaysia as a leading economic force in Asia.
"The framework offers guidance to leadership and future generations to establish an economic system based on humane principles, compassion, kindness, and ensuring justice for every Malaysian.
"In line with this, the government has also initiated measures to bring about new shifts this year.
"While I understand that not all decisions and policies are popular or yield immediate results, all were made with clear political will, sincere intentions, and careful consideration to ensure that these policies benefit the majority of the people.
"Take for example the targeting of diesel subsidies and electricity tariffs to prevent longstanding leakages caused by blanket subsidies benefiting the wealthy and 3.5 million ineligible foreigners," he said in his 2025 New Year message, which was aired tonight.
Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, reiterated the government's commitment to address the rising cost of living issues faced by the people.
This, he said, includes the increase in the Rahmah Cash Aid (STR) and Rahmah Basic Assistance (SARA) by RM3 billion or 30 per cent, as announced in the 2025 Budget.
"The allocation for the STR and SARA was increased by RM10 billion this year, the largest in history.
"God willing, the government plans to further increase the allocation for STR and SARA by RM3 billion, or 30 per cent, bringing the total to RM13 billion next year.
"In addition to increasing yearly aid, the government is actively addressing the issue of rising cost of living through initiatives such as the Payung Rahmah Programme, which is being implemented nationwide.
"Monitoring teams have been mobilised to observe, track and take action against those who exploit pricing unfairly."