The 2012 Budget and the National Key Result Area (NKRA) 7 will aim to combat increasing high cost of living, with special focus on the urban and rural poor, said Second Finance Minister Ahmad Husni Hanazdlah.

"We will conduct more detailed studies and research in our effort to alleviate the burden of the people affected by food cost increases," he told a press conference after opening the Ah-Saniah surau in Kampung Seberang Sungai Tapah in Ipoh today.

He also announced an additional allocation of RM160,000 for the surau that was built at a cost of RM450,000.

Ahmad Husni, who is also Tambun member of parliament, said the Finance Ministry would ensure that any assistance being channeled would reach the targeted recipients.

Prime Minister Najib Razak who unveiled the new NKRA last week said the cost increase was a global phenomenon which needed to be contained as it was impacting adversely on the people.

- Bernama