28/07/2025

MONDAY | JULY 28, 2025

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‘Fuel subsidy is for Malaysians, not foreigners’ MUAR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that the recently announced subsidised price of RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre is exclusively for Malaysians, while foreigners will be charged the current market rate. “This is not a form of discrimination, but the policy of a sovereign nation committed to protecting the welfare of its people,” he said in his speech when launching the National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang 2025 campaign at Dataran Tanjung Emas here yesterday.

Premier reaffirms commitment to democracy and freedom of speech KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated his consistent stand in upholding democratic principles, including freedom of speech and the right to express criticism in a civil and peaceful manner. He said criticism and differing opinions should not be viewed through the lens of hostility, but instead be allowed to grow and flourish as the heartbeat of a mature, progressive and sovereign nation, so long as they were conveyed with decorum, peace and love for the country. “I extend my deepest appreciation to all personnel from the security forces, including the police, fire brigade, medical teams and volunteers who carried out their duties with great swiftness, discipline and dedication to ensure public safety and order and the smooth running of the gathering. “To everyone who attended, whether to voice their opinions, show solidarity, or travelled from afar, I wish you a safe journey back to your destinations. May your travels be eased and protected,” he said in a Facebook post. Commenting further, Anwar said the same principles were reflected in the prime minister’s question time in Parliament, which allowed MPs to question and directly express their objections to him as the prime minister. “I urge you to continue pressing MPs to attend and actively participate in all sessions, especially during question time.” Anwar also invited the people to continue engaging in dialogue and discourse, seeking common ground, charting the path forward and building the nation together. “And if you have the chance in future, don’t forget to return to Kuala Lumpur. Iconic landmarks around the capital, including the Sultan Abdul Samad Building at Dataran Merdeka, are currently undergoing extensive conservation plans to boost tourism and support the economy of this historically rich capital city filled with hope and national spirit, especially in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Many exciting activities await, God willing,” he added. Meanwhile, no arrests were made by the police in connection with the rally held in the capital on Saturday, said Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail. He said the assembly proceeded peacefully, was well-controlled and took place without any incidents that threatened public order. “There were no arrests. All control measures were carried out professionally and ethically, reflecting police’s calm and responsible approach in ensuring that democratic space is exercised safely and prudently,” he said in a statement. He said 3,000 police officers and personnel were deployed to manage the 18,000 crowd. He said participants began gathering from as early as 10.30am in areas around the National Mosque, Sogo shopping complex, Masjid Jamek and Pasar Seni, before moving towards Dataran Merdeka at about 2pm. – Bernama He added that savings from the subsidy rationalisation would be channelled towards strengthening welfare programmes, rural development and gradually increasing the minimum wage, including in the public sector and government-linked companies. – Bernama Malaysia are not raised arbitrarily, adding that despite fiscal pressures, the government has kept prices among the lowest in the region. “If you don’t believe me, just look at the fuel prices in Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia, all of which are much higher. We are still able to provide (RON95) at RM1.99 per litre. That is my responsibility,” he said.

neither pay taxes nor contribute directly to the national economy. He also criticised the remarks of an opposition leader from Johor who allegedly questioned the decision to limit the fuel subsidy to Malaysian citizens. “An opposition leader asked why foreigners have to pay more. I don’t understand. I am the prime minister of Malaysia. “Foreigners do not pay taxes like Malaysians. In which country do non-citizens receive subsidies equal to those given to locals? My primary responsibility is to look after the welfare of Malaysians,” he said. Anwar also stressed that fuel prices in

Also present were Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Information Department director-general Julina Johan. Anwar said the targeted subsidy initiative is expected to reduce government expenditure, which has long been enjoyed by foreigners who

He said the move is crucial to ensure that the government’s substantial subsidies are enjoyed solely by Malaysian citizens, in line with the Madani government’s commitment to social justice. “RON95 petrol is sold to Malaysians at RM1.99 per litre. Foreigners and tourists, including those from Singapore, will have to pay RM2.50 or RM2.60 per litre.

Judge us on facts, not political spin: Anwar

adjustments where needed,” he said. Meanwhile, Anwar said he is open to the Opposition tabling a vote of no confidence against his leadership in the Dewan Rakyat. The PKR president and Pakatan Harapan chairman said such a move is part of a legitimate democratic process. “We are open to it. This is the correct process. If they want to table it (a vote of no confidence), go ahead. He (Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin) has been saying that for three years now,” Anwar said. He was responding to comments by Hamzah, the opposition leader, during a gathering at Dataran Merdeka on Saturday, in which the latter claimed the opposition is currently considering submitting the motion to Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul soon. Earlier, Anwar arrived at the closed-door event at 12.30pm, where he delivered his presidential address and engaged with PKR members in attendance. - Bernama

o PM slams false narratives, says government efforts are being misrepresented, opposition free to table no-confidence vote

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the public to assess the government’s efforts and policies based on facts rather than political sentiment. He said although the government has implemented various initiatives, there are still parties spreading inaccurate information, such as claims of rising fuel and commodity prices, when in reality, the opposite is true. “This is a free and democratic country, but we must provide clarification. During interviews (at the gathering in Dataran Merdeka), some claimed fuel prices had gone up, when in fact they had gone down. There Support 1 House 1 Jalur Gemilang campaign: Minister MUAR: Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has called on all Malaysians to support the “1 House 1 Jalur Gemilang” campaign as a symbol of patriotism and unity ahead of the National Day and Malaysia Day 2025 celebrations. Fahmi, who is also chairman of the main committee for the celebrations, encouraged the public to proudly display the national flag at their homes, vehicles, offices, schools and business premises as a show of support. “Fly the Jalur Gemilang proudly and properly wherever you are,” he said at the launch of the National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang 2025 Campaign at Dataran Tanjung Emas yesterday. The event was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Also present were Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Information Department director-general Julina Johan. Fahmi said the celebration is not merely symbolic, but a manifestation of shared responsibility in fostering patriotism and strengthening love for the nation. “It is a time for us to reflect on history, honour past sacrifices and renew our commitment to this beloved nation.” Fahmi also emphasised that the spirit of unity, built over the past 68 years through the Federal Constitution, remains the cornerstone of the country’s peace and stability. – Bernama

are many (such false claims). “This reflects political sentiment and hatred, not facts. Therefore, we suggest that the people make judgments based on facts. If there are shortcomings, we are open to improvement,” he told reporters after attending the Organisational Strengthening Seminar and PKR president’s tour of the Federal Territories here yesterday. Anwar, who is also finance minister, acknowledged that while not every government initiative is perfect, efforts are continually being made to resolve issues. “I’m not saying what we’ve done is perfect, but we constantly listen and make

ENGAGING WITH THE COMMUNITY ... Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming (third from left) interacts with visitors during a walkabout at the playground area following the launch of the Madani Canning Recreational Park in Taman Canning yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC