KUALA LUMPUR: Efforts to address the rising cost of living are being implemented in stages and in a prudent manner to ensure Malaysians can enjoy a more stable and prosperous life, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said the government was taking a gradual and carefully calibrated approach in rolling out measures aimed at easing financial pressures on the people.

“Efforts to address the rising cost of living are being implemented in stages and prudently to enable the people to enjoy a more stable, prosperous life.

“This approach ensures that interventions are carefully sequenced so that they are effective and do not disrupt economic stability,” he said in his speech at the investiture ceremony in conjunction with His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia’s official birthday.

He said this was part of broader efforts to maintain economic stability while ensuring targeted assistance reaches those who need it most.

“The focus is on ensuring that assistance is targeted, so that support reaches the right groups without burdening the national finances,” Anwar said.

He said the government remained focused on strengthening social protection systems and improving access to essential services, including healthcare and education.

“These initiatives are being carried out alongside fiscal reforms and targeted subsidy measures to ensure public resources are used more efficiently.

“The objective is to strengthen resilience in the economy while improving the overall well-being of the people,” he added.