Penang CM calls for sustainable solutions beyond RM100 aid
Chow, while acknowledging the government's effort amid tight fiscal constraints, stressed the need for forward-looking policies that provide long-term relief for the rakyat.
"The RM100 one-off aid is a helpful gesture during tough times, but I believe Malaysians hope for long-term solutions to the rising cost of living.
"While the government faces financial constraints, we need policies that create jobs and support businesses.
"I urge everyone to give Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim time and space to manage current economic challenges effectively," he said on his Facebook page.
In a televised address as an "extraordinary tribute" to Malaysians, Anwar announced that all Malaysians aged 18 and above would receive a one-off RM100 payment, which would benefit 22 million citizens.
Anwar also announced a slew of assistance to ease the people's cost of living.
Elaborating, Chow said the incentive, which would cost the government billions, was much appreciated.
"However, what the people really want are comprehensive solutions — initiatives that lower the cost of doing business, infrastructure projects that generate employment and strategies that stimulate economic growth," he added, urging the federal government to expedite the disbursement and simplify the application processes related to aid programmes, ensuring that assistance reached those in need without delay.
Addressing concerns over economic pressures, Chow expressed confidence in Anwar's leadership, calling for him to be given sufficient time and space to manage the challenges, including the United States' tariff situation that could affect exports.
He said Anwar should be given a free hand to mediate and mitigate the current situation.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Malaysiakini
24 minutes ago
- Malaysiakini
Thailand, Cambodia agree to unconditional ceasefire
Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an unconditional ceasefire effective midnight, following peace talks mediated by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya today. Anwar, as Asean chairperson, said the ceasefire is among the common understandings reached at the meeting attended by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
Malaysian Reserve
an hour ago
- Malaysian Reserve
Family, associates celebrate Dr Mahathir's 100th birthday with tributes, legacy
by SUFEA SALEHUDDIN A GRAND celebration was held at the Palace of the Golden Horses on Sunday to mark the 100th birthday of Malaysia's longest-serving Prime Minister (PM) Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Hosted by the hotel's founder Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew, the event brought together over 300 guests, including Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, family members, corporate figures, foreign dignitaries and long-time associates of the centenarian. Beyond commemorating a rare personal milestone, the celebration served as a tribute to Dr Mahathir's more than six decades of contributions to national development, with speeches and performances reflecting on his enduring legacy. The ceremony began with a rousing chorus of 'Happy Birthday' from the guests, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony and a special video presentation chronicling Dr Mahathir's life — from his early years in Alor Setar, Kedah, to his two terms as Malaysia's fourth and seventh PM. One of the evening's highlights was a musical performance by veteran banker and philanthropist Tan Sri Azman Hashim. In his brief remarks, Lee described Mahathir as 'a symbol of strength, struggle and strategic assurance'. 'He has been sidelined, debated, praised and criticised. But I believe all Malaysians — regardless of race, age or belief — can agree that very few individuals devote their entire lives to the country. Dr Mahathir has done exactly that,' he said. Lee added that the celebration was not only about looking back but also about setting the tone for the country's future. 'This is not just about Dr Mahathir. It is about Malaysia and whether we have the courage to prepare the country for the next 100 years,' he said.
Barnama
an hour ago
- Barnama
Thailand, Cambodia Agree To Ceasefire
By Linda Khoo PUTRAJAYA, July 28 (Bernama) -- Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an immediate ceasefire amid rising tensions along their disputed border, following a special meeting held in Putrajaya on Monday. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the agreement after chairing the special meeting between Thailand and Cambodia at the Seri Perdana Complex here. bootstrap slideshow Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet attended the meeting, which began at 3 pm. Also in attendance were United States (US) Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard Kagan and Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing. The US was a co-organiser of the meeting while China, an observer. Last Friday, Anwar had called Phumtham and Manet separately, appealing for both leaders to seek an immediate ceasefire and return to dialogue to resolve their dispute. 'Both Cambodia and Thailand reached a common understanding as follows: an immediate and unconditional ceasefire with effect from 24:00 hr local time on July 28, 2025. This is a vital first step towards de-escalation and the restoration of peace and security,' Anwar said at a joint press conference after the meeting. -- BERNAMA
