On Saturday, a significant number of Malaysians gathered in the capital to voice their concerns over escalating living costs and what they see as insufficient reforms from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government.
The protest orchestrated by opposition parties signifies the inaugural major demonstration in Southeast Asia’s sixth-largest economy following Anwar’s ascent to power after the 2022 general elections.
Protesters assembled at multiple locations throughout the city centre before uniting at the central Merdeka (Independence) Square. They carried placards reading “Turun Anwar,” which translates to “Step down Anwar” in Malay, as police closely monitored the situation.
“He (Anwar) has already been in power for three years and has not yet delivered on the promises he made,” stated protester Fauzi Mahmud, 35, from Selangor, just outside the capital.
Fauzi expressed scepticism about Anwar’s international efforts, stating, “He has been to many countries to bring investments, but we have yet to see anything,” about the premier’s recent trips to Russia and Europe, as reported by AFP.
“The cost of living remains elevated,” the engineer stated.
Anwar’s appointment as premier came on a platform of reform, with a commitment to address issues of corruption, nepotism, and cronyism that plague the fractured political landscape of the Southeast Asian nation.
In the lead-up to the rally, the premier unveiled a series of populist initiatives aimed at addressing pressing concerns, including a cash handout for every adult citizen and a commitment to reduce fuel prices.
On Wednesday, Anwar announced that Malaysians aged 18 and above will receive a one-time payment of 100 Malaysian ringgit ($23.71), to be distributed starting August 31.
He stated that approximately 18 million Malaysian motorists will qualify to buy heavily subsidised medium-octane fuel for 1.99 ringgit per litre, a reduction from the current rate of 2.05 ringgit.
Political analysts interpreted the announcements as a calculated effort to address growing public dissatisfaction and to deter participation in the upcoming Saturday protest.
A recent survey conducted by the Malaysia-based independent Merdeka Centre for Opinion Research reveals that a significant majority of Malaysian voters have expressed a positive approval rating for Anwar, standing at 55%.
The easing of political turmoil in recent years, along with efforts to elevate Malaysia’s profile through its chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year, were cited as key reasons.
