Budget 2025 to focus on inflation control, cost of living solutions: PM

The government will prioritise strategies to stabilise inflation and address the rising cost of living in Budget 2025.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said under the Madani government, the inflation rate is holding steady at two percent, with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth for the second quarter of this year at 5.9 percent.

“I just returned from Vladivostok, Russia (where) I met President Vladimir Putin. Questions were raised about our inflation rate, which is at two percent, while some food sectors see inflation at three to 3.5 percent. Even that has been a challenge to manage.

“My focus and strategy for the budget (presentation) in October is to find solutions to the cost of living issues... Although, compared to neighbouring countries like Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore, our inflation is relatively low,” he added.

He said this in his speech when officiating the national-level 2024 “Bulan Malaysia Sihat Sejahtera” (Healthy Malaysia) month celebration today. Also present were Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun and Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad.

In this regard, Anwar said the government is committed to prudent economic management, ensuring there is no wasteful spending in various sectors.

Based on the Statistics Department’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for July, the country’s inflation rate has remained at two percent since May.

The department said the inflation rate was driven by price increases in key categories, including restaurants and accommodation services (3.4 percent); personal care, social protection, and miscellaneous goods and services (3.2 percent); recreation, sports, and culture (2.2 percent); and health care (1.9 percent).

No interference

Anwar reiterated that he has never interfered in investigations involving any individual or leader, stressing that such matters are entirely in the hands of the authorities.

“These days, it seems like there's a new scandal every week, and some people say it's because Anwar is seeking revenge. That’s completely untrue.

“We must put a stop to leaders abusing their power for personal gain. I want everyone to understand this clearly.

“I don’t care who is under investigation - whether it’s a case of motorcycle theft or robbery - that’s the job of the police. They don’t seek my approval to investigate anyone,” he stressed.

- Bernama

New MMA head wants better future for doctors in public healthcare

'On call' medical officers can expect good news in Budget 2025: Dzulkefly

Saifuddin defends Anwar's positions, says legitimacy already proven

LETTER | Govt urged to implement RM2k minimum wage policy in Budget 2025