Structural reforms needed to help urban poor

PC on poorly maintained lifts at PPR Pekan Kepong, Kuala Lumpur . — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star

WHEN Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim tabled Budget 2026 on Oct 10, one theme stood out clearly: the Madani government is determined to ease the people’s burden amid the rising cost of living.

This commitment extends to both the rural community and urban poor. For many in densely-populated areas like Bukit Bintang where I am actively involved in community work, high rent, transport costs and cramped living conditions are part of daily life. Many of the measures in Budget 2026, including Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara), will offer relief to many struggling households.