JELEBU: While RM16bil had been allocated for the Sumbangan Asas Rahman (Sara) programme, more needs to be done as many Malaysians continue to struggle with rising prices, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said that is why increasing allocations for the programme is being considered in Budget 2027, which is due to be tabled in October.
“We are helping the people. I am not satisfied because I know many people are still facing hardship. Prices are still rising. That is why, for this Budget, I will review it.
“If the situation remains peaceful and the economy continues to perform well, I will increase the allocation further,” he said at an event in Chennah, where the Pakatan Harapan candidate is Anthony Loke.
He said external factors had contributed to the higher cost of living, particularly conflicts in the Middle East.
“When I tabled the Budget last year, oil was about US$70 a barrel. Now it has risen to around US$90,” he said.
Anwar said Malaysia also imported phosphate fertiliser for the agriculture sector, including for Felda areas, and disruptions to shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz had pushed up freight charges, insurance costs and overall transportation expenses.
“As a result, the prices of goods also increased,” he said.
Despite global price pressures, Anwar said Malaysia continued to maintain among the world’s lowest RON95 petrol prices.
“Compare it with other countries. Malaysia still has among the cheapest fuel prices in the world,” he said.
Anwar, who is also Pakatan chairman, said Malaysia remained one of the most peaceful countries in the region despite its multi-ethnic composition.
Stability, he added, had helped attract strong investments, including into Negri Sembilan.
