KUALA LUMPUR: The government has stepped up measures to shield Malaysians from rising living costs as global energy pressures continue to drive up prices, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister said Putrajaya is taking a dual approach — easing financial burdens while boosting income levels — to ensure a dignified standard of living.
He said the issue was a key focus at the 17th meeting of the National Action Council on Cost of Living (Naccol) executive committee, which also assessed the government’s readiness to face the global energy crisis.
“The crisis has had a direct impact on the prices of goods and the overall cost of living.
“The government will not compromise with any party attempting to take advantage by unreasonably increasing prices, particularly by using the Middle East conflict as an excuse,” he said in a statement on Thursday (April 2).
Ahmad Zahid stressed that the rakyat’s interests remain the top priority, with firm action to be taken against those found violating regulations.
Acknowledging mounting pressure on households, he said the government remains committed to safeguarding livelihoods without imposing additional burdens.
“As an immediate and responsive measure, the Naccol executive committee will convene regularly based on current needs throughout the energy crisis period to ensure issues affecting the people are addressed swiftly and effectively,” he added.
To support the rakyat, the government has allocated RM54.7bil this year for social assistance, subsidies and income-enhancement initiatives.
These include the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara), the Rahmah Sales Programme, as well as fuel and agricultural subsidies.
“Taking into account developments in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, subsidy allocations are expected to increase,” he said.
Currently, more than 13.7 million Malaysians benefit from 60 social assistance programmes nationwide. Of these, over half receive at least two forms of aid, while nearly one-third are households earning RM2,000 and below monthly.
“This shows that government assistance is reaching those who need it most,” he added.
Ahmad Zahid said the government will also continue strengthening public transport, expanding economic and job opportunities, and improving the delivery of clear and transparent information.
“People deserve accurate information to make the best decisions in their daily lives,” he said.
He stressed that the government will continue to stand with the rakyat, with policies aimed at preserving public well-being amid ongoing economic challenges.
