PETALING JAYA: The government Backbenchers Club (BBC) says Putrajaya’s measures to safeguard the rakyat’s well-being ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri reflect a structured and targeted approach to easing living costs and strengthening the economy.
The club’s chairman, Dr Zaliha Mustafa said this is particularly important amid inflationary pressures and the seasonal increase in spending typically faced by Malaysians during the Aidilfitri celebration.
In a statement, Zaliha noted that the 50% toll discount for Hari Raya Aidilfitri would reduce travel costs for those returning to their hometowns. The fast-track discharge from bankruptcy for approximately 4,000 individuals is also set to contribute productively to the economy.
She also highlighted other cost-of-living and social support measures, including the early disbursement of Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) to 5.2 million recipients; special aid for civil servants, retirees and religious groups; as well as price controls and supply assurances during Ramadan.
“Overall, this highlights the government’s ability to coordinate fiscal and social policies simultaneously, delivering a direct impact to the rakyat,” said the Sekijang MP.
“This represents a proactive intervention strategy aimed at maintaining a balance between the public’s needs and the country’s fiscal capacity.”
Earlier today, opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin expressed disappointment over the 80 sen hike in diesel prices to RM4.72 per litre, stating it should have been postponed until after Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Hamzah said that although global oil prices increased due to the war in the Middle East, the government should have taken a more prudent approach by postponing the increase or implementing it gradually.
