Thousands Protest in Malaysia Over Soaring Costs, Unmet Reform Promises Under PM Anwar
In one of the largest demonstrations seen in the Malaysian capital in recent years, thousands of citizens took to the streets on Saturday to protest the rising cost of living and what they see as Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s failure to deliver on long-promised reforms.
Organized by opposition parties, the protest marked the first major street rally since Anwar took office in 2022 as head of a broad-based “unity government.” Demonstrators converged at Kuala Lumpur’s Independence Square, holding signs that read, “Step down Anwar,” while under the watchful presence of dozens of police officers.
“He’s been in power for three years now and still hasn’t fulfilled his promises,” said Fauzi Mahmud, 35, who travelled from Selangor to join the rally. “He keeps travelling overseas to attract investment, but we’ve seen no real impact. Prices are still going up.”
Rising Discontent Amid Economic Strains
Malaysia, Southeast Asia’s sixth-largest economy, has faced persistent inflation pressures in recent years. Protesters voiced frustration not only over economic hardship but also over the perceived lack of progress on Anwar’s reformist agenda a campaign that had promised sweeping changes to root out corruption, cronyism, and nepotism.
Populist Promises Amid Mounting Pressure
In the days leading up to the protest, Anwar’s administration announced a series of populist policies widely interpreted as efforts to ease public frustration. These included a cash handout of 100 ringgit ($23.70) for all adult Malaysians starting August 31, and new fuel subsidies that would allow some 18 million motorists to purchase medium-octane petrol at a reduced price of 1.99 ringgit ($0.47) per litre, slightly down from the current 2.05 ringgit ($0.49).
Despite these efforts, dissatisfaction remains. Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was among those addressing the crowd, lending weight to the opposition-led movement.
Approval Ratings Show a Divided Public
Though Saturday’s turnout reflected widespread discontent, recent polling paints a more complex picture. A June survey by the independent Merdeka Centre for Opinion Research showed 55% of Malaysians approve of Anwar’s performance as prime minister. The poll credited his administration for helping to stabilize Malaysia’s turbulent political landscape and boost its international profile, particularly through his 2025 chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Reform Hopes Tested
Anwar rose to power on a platform of accountability and reform, following decades of political infighting and economic mismanagement in Malaysia. But as the cost-of-living crisis deepens and visible reforms stall, his ability to maintain public confidence is facing its toughest test yet.
