PORT DICKSON, Sept 8 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government will prioritise strategies to stabilise inflation and address the rising cost of living in Budget 2025.
Under the Madani government, the inflation rate is holding steady at two per cent, with gross domestic product growth for the second quarter of this year at 5.9 per cent.
“I just returned from Vladivostok, Russia (where) I met President Vladimir Putin. Questions were raised about our inflation rate, which is at two per cent, while some food sectors see inflation at three to 3.5 per cent. Even that has been a challenge to manage.
“My focus and strategy for the Budget (presentation) in October is to find solutions to the cost of living issues... Although, compared to neighbouring countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore, our inflation is relatively low,” he said.
Anwar was speaking at the national-level 2024 National Wellness Month celebration today, which was also attended by Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
In this regard, the government is committed to prudent economic management, ensuring there is no wasteful spending in various sectors.
Based on the Department of Statistics Malaysia’s Consumer Price Index report for July this year, Malaysia’s inflation rate has remained at 2.0 per cent since May.
The inflation rate was driven by price increases in key categories, including restaurants and accommodation services (3.4 per cent); personal care, social protection and miscellaneous goods and services (3.2 per cent); recreation, sports, and culture (2.2 per cent); and health care (1.9 per cent).
Meanwhile, Anwar reiterated that he has never interfered in investigations involving any individual or leader, stressing that such matters are entirely in the hands of the authorities.
“These days, it seems like there is a new scandal every week, and some people say it is because Anwar is seeking revenge. That is completely untrue; we must put a stop to leaders abusing their power for personal gain.
“I want everyone to understand this clearly; I do not care who is under investigation — whether it is a case of motorcycle theft or robbery — that is the job of the police. They do not seek my approval to investigate anyone,” he said.
— Bernama
