Thousands rally in Kuala Lumpur to protest Malaysia PM Anwar's leadership
The rally organised by opposition parties marked the first major protest in Southeast Asia's sixth-largest economy since Anwar was propelled to power after general elections in 2022.
Protesters gathered at various points around the city centre before converging on the city's central Dataran Merdeka, a square commemorating the country's independence, carrying placards saying "Turun Anwar" - "step down Anwar" in Malay - while police kept a close eye.
"He (Anwar) has already governed the country for three years and has yet to fulfil the promises he made," said protester Fauzi Mahmud, 35, from Selangor just outside the capital.
Anwar "has been to many countries to bring investments, but we have yet to see anything," Fauzi told AFP, referring to the premier's recent trips, including to Russia and Europe.
"The cost of living is still high," the engineer said.
Anwar was appointed prime minister on a reformist ticket and promised to tackle graft, nepotism and cronyism within the Southeast Asian nation's fractured political system.
Days ahead of the rally, he laid out a string of populist measures aimed at addressing concerns, including a cash handout for all adult citizens and a promise to cut fuel prices.
Anwar on Wednesday announced that Malaysians above 18 years will receive a one-off payment of RM100 (US$23.70), to be distributed from Aug 31.
He added that about 18 million Malaysian motorists will be eligible to purchase heavily subsidised medium-octane fuel at RM1.99 per litre, compared to the current price of RM2.05.
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