PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's long-teased "special surprise" has proven underwhelming. The announced measures – a one-off RM100 cash handout for citizens age 18 and above, a 6sen reduction per litre to the RON95 fuel price, the declaration of Sept 15, 2025, as a public holiday, delayed toll hikes and an adjustment in minimum wage – have failed to deliver meaningful relief to the public or restore market confidence.
Instead of inspiring confidence, these short-term measures have raised further concerns about the government's strategic direction. Many Malaysians, especially urban residents, see little in terms of actual assistance. The impact is miniscule: RM100 may cover only a few days' worth of basic necessities, while the 6sen fuel reduction provides marginal savings in the face of rising living costs.
