Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim delivered a special address to the nation on 23 July 2025, unveiling a series of initiatives to demonstrate the government’s commitment to the people’s welfare. This address comes amid continued cost-of-living challenges, with food prices still high despite overall inflation slowing to around 1.1%. The measures also precede planned public rallies highlighting household economic pressures and calls for faster reforms.
“With full sense of responsibility, I announce several immediate efforts to alleviate the cost-of-living burden and as a gesture of appreciation and celebration for the people,” Anwar said.
Here are the six key takeaways you need to know from the Prime Minister’s national address:
1. RM 100 one-off cash aid for adults
All Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above will receive a one-off RM 100 cash credit, disbursed via MyKad from 31 August to 31 December 2025 under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme. The aid covers about 22 million people, with any unused balance redirected to help vulnerable groups next year.
2. RON95 petrol subsidy adjustment
Malaysians will soon pay a lower RON95 petrol price of RM 1.99 per litre, down from around RM 2.05, with the updated targeted subsidy kicking in by September 2025. The subsidy will no longer apply to foreign motorists to curb cross-border fuel abuse.
3. Extra public holiday on 15 September
Rejoice! Anwar has declared Monday, 15 September 2025, as an additional public holiday ahead of Malaysia Day to strengthen unity and allow Malaysians to spend more time with loved ones.
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4. Toll rate hike deferred
The government will defer planned toll hikes for ten major highways, including the LPT2, SKVE, SDE, LLB, and MEX, saving road users extra costs while the government absorbs more than RM 500 million in compensation to the concessionaires.
5. 4,352 new government doctor posts
In a long-awaited boost for the healthcare sector, 4,352 new positions for government doctors will be created this year, addressing the severe shortage of medical staff in public hospitals and clinics.
6. Bigger Madani Rahmah discount programme
The Madani Rahmah Sales allocation will be doubled to RM 600 million, allowing more Malaysians access to discounted essential goods through an expanded network of participating stores.
From immediate cash relief to cheaper fuel and new medical jobs, Anwar’s announcements aim to balance short-term economic relief with long-term structural support. As always, public attention will be on how efficiently these measures are delivered and whether they translate into real savings for ordinary Malaysians.
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