GEORGE TOWN: The cost of living and the need for better wages remain a pressing concern for most Malaysians as they look ahead to Budget 2025.

Sales consultant SR Puventhiran, 24, recently graduated from a private college and is now struggling to make ends meet with a take-home pay of a little over RM2,000.

“Sometimes, even getting food for the day is a burden, especially for those living in cities,” he said.

While Puventhiran acknowledged the government’s efforts to reduce living costs, he said prices of essential goods and housing and education, combined with stagnant wages, were placing a significant financial strain on lower and middle-income households.

He said he hoped the government could introduce cash aid, especially for singles and fresh graduates. 

Puventhiran also said the education system should be improved by revamping outdated teaching methods.

Pensioner Mohd Noor Ahmad, 62, expressed concern that rising food prices might be a result of trader manipulation.

He urged the government to enhance price-monitoring and enforcement when it comes to essential goods. 

“The issue of expensive food items and traders inflating raw material prices must be addressed in Budget 2025.

“We don’t want our inflation rate to skyrocket,” he said.

Public servant Wong Sook Shyan, 41, called for Budget 2025 to focus on the needs of working mothers.

She said better and cheaper daycare options were crucial to help her balance work and her childcare responsibilities.

“Many women now work and finding a quality and trusted daycare centre is tough for us.

“So, it would be good if the government can include this as one of the main items in Budget 2025,” she added.

Budget 2025 is set to be presented on Oct 18.

Government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil had said this would mark the third budget tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who also serves as Finance Minister, since assuming office after the 15th General Election in 2022.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/24/calls-to-address-cost-of-living