Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s political secretary has rejected claims that the “special appreciation” announcement earlier this week amounts to a populist move or an electoral “sweetener” ahead of the next general election.
Shamsul Iskandar Md Akin said an independent survey indicated that Anwar’s popularity had already risen to 58%, significantly higher than in previous assessments.
A separate survey by Merdeka Center, published on June 23, found that 55% of respondents approved of Anwar’s performance, compared with 43% in June 2024.
“This is not about trying to be popular. After two and a half years of governing, the question is: what are we giving back to the people?
The announcement reflects the government’s mid-term performance. If it were an election gimmick, it would have been unveiled much later — this administration’s term only ends in 2027,” he said during an interview with TV AlHijrah last night.
On Wednesday, Anwar announced a one-off RM100 cash aid under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme, which will be disbursed via MyKad to 22 million Malaysians aged 18 and above in conjunction with National Day.
Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, further revealed that the RON95 petrol price will be reduced from RM2.05 to RM1.99 per litre under a targeted subsidy scheme, with full details expected by the end of September.
Following the announcement, several opposition leaders mocked the move, calling the aid “meagre” and unworthy of the hype.
Shamsul hit back at critics for belittling and politicising the RM100 SARA assistance, saying that those in need would regard it as a meaningful relief.
He also urged the public to understand the cross-subsidy mechanism for RON95 petrol, stressing that it ensures only eligible groups benefit.
“Those not eligible are higher-income earners and foreign nationals. The spending by these groups helps offset the six-sen reduction,” he said.
“If we don’t lower the price, we get vilified on social media. But when we do, we face criticism from a different angle.”
