Tens of thousands of Malaysians marched through the streets of the capital on Saturday (Jul 26), protesting against the rising cost of living and what they say is a failure by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s government to deliver on promised reforms.
The demonstration, organised by opposition parties, marks the first major street protest in Malaysia since Anwar assumed office in 2022 following the general elections.
Protesters began gathering at various locations across the city before converging at Merdeka (Independence) Square under light rain, holding signs that read “Turun Anwar”, “Step down Anwar” in Malay, while police maintained a visible presence.
“He (Anwar) has already governed the country for three years and has yet to fulfil the promises he made,” said protester Fauzi Mahmud, 35, an engineer from Selangor.
“He has been to many countries to bring investments, but we have yet to see anything. The cost of living is still high,” he told AFP, referring to the prime minister’s recent trips to Russia and Europe.
Among the speakers at the rally was former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad, once Anwar’s mentor and now a political rival. “It’s been three years, what have the people got? I think he (Anwar) enjoys seeing us suffer,” Mahathir said, addressing the crowd.
“Enough, please, step down,” added Mahathir, who celebrated his 100th birthday last month and is one of the world’s longest-living statesmen.
Authorities estimated the turnout ranged between 18,000 and 50,000 participants. The large gathering reflects growing frustration over economic pressures and perceived government inaction, despite Anwar’s reformist platform.
Anwar was appointed prime minister with promises to tackle corruption, nepotism, and cronyism, issues that have long plagued Malaysia’s political system. However, critics argue that little progress has been made.
Populist Measures Unveiled Ahead of Rally
Just days before the protest, Anwar announced a series of populist measures aimed at easing economic strain. These included a RM100 (US$23.70) cash handout for all adult citizens and a pledge to reduce fuel prices.
On Wednesday, he revealed that approximately 18 million motorists would be eligible to purchase subsidised medium-octane fuel at RM1.99 per litre, down from the current RM2.05.
Analysts have described the timing of the announcements as a strategic attempt to reduce public dissatisfaction and deter participation in the protest.
Norhamizah Mohamed, 48, from Besut in northeastern Malaysia, said she took part in the rally to ensure Anwar is held accountable.
“Anwar does what he promised in the election manifesto,” she told AFP. “It’s not that we don’t like him, but we don’t like the way he is running the country.”
“Only after we had decided to do this protest he announced the goodies for the people,” she added.
The protest comes as political parties begin to prepare for the next general election, which must be held by law no later than February 2028. While opposition momentum is building, Anwar’s government still retains a measure of public support.
A recent poll conducted by the independent Merdeka Centre for Opinion Research found that 55 percent of Malaysian voters continue to view Anwar favourably.
The approval rating was largely attributed to his efforts to bring political stability and elevate Malaysia’s global profile, particularly during the country’s chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year.
