Govt to prioritise cost of living issue, says Anwar

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today said that the rising cost of living will be given priority by his unity government to alleviate the burden being shouldered by the people.

He said a meeting with the relevant agencies and departments would be held on Monday at the latest to discuss the issue, including the price of goods.

"Even with the positive signs, such as the upside strength seen for ringgit and the stock markets, that show increased confidence in the current government, I think the priority should continue to be given to the rising cost of living and price of goods that are plaguing and burdening the people," he said at a press conference on his first day in office at Perdana Putra.

Earlier, Anwar also met with top government officials, namely Chief Secretary to the Government Mohd Zuki Ali and Director-General of Public Service Mohd Shafiq Abdullah.

Anwar also received official documents on government administration from Zuki.
 
The newly appointed prime minister also expressed confidence that the top government officials would have no issue helping his government address the cost of living problem.

"I know I announced that Monday is a public holiday, and if they (the officials) are reluctant, I can postpone (the meeting).

"... but I believe in their commitment and that they understand that our main job is to alleviate the burden of the people at the grassroots," he said, adding that his Cabinet would enable Malaysia to bounce back and reclaim its status on the international stage.