Reforms should ease people's burden, not deepen them
When hardworking citizens find their disposable incomes falling further behind rising prices, when businesses lose confidence, and when our economy lacks a sustainable foundation for growth, it is only correct to ask whether current policies are truly serving people.
Recent calls for the public to 'endure the pain of reform' seemed increasingly disconnected from reality. The Sun Life Financial Resilience Index report paints a worrying picture of high inflation and economic uncertainty, with many Malaysians forced to focus solely on immediate survival, with little room to plan for the future.
This isn't a choice; it's a necessity imposed by circumstance.
When wages barely cover daily essentials, long-term financial planning becomes impossible. This explains why retirement preparedness, once a top concern, has dropped sharply in priority.
Such trends should concern policymakers, because when people cannot afford to have savings, the nation's future stability is at risk.
While the government has secured significant foreign investment pledges - over RM400 billion - these benefits have yet to reach most Malaysians.
Instead, households now face higher taxes, rising utility bills, and reduced subsidies. Taxation should improve lives, not deepen hardship. Yet under current reforms, many feel they're being asked to sacrifice more while receiving less in return.
It is heartbreaking to hear ordinary workers question whether they're 'not working hard enough.' The truth is, no amount of personal effort can outpace the relentless rise in living costs. When a full-time job no longer guarantees financial security, frustration is inevitable and justified.
Where are the safeguards?
Beyond domestic pressures, external challenges loom. Malaysia's trade negotiations with the United States appear precarious, with proposed tariff increases threatening key exports like electronics and medical gloves.
While the government remains optimistic, we must ask: what safeguards exist to protect jobs and businesses if talks fail?
Reform is necessary, but its success must be measured by tangible outcomes: easing living costs, restoring business confidence, and ensuring sustainable growth.
If these goals remain unmet, we risk reforms that inflict pain without progress.
Wanita MCA urges the government to renew its focus on policies that empower, rather than burden, the people. Only then can we build a strong economy that works for all Malaysians.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
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