Anwar said the government would instead offer direct fund injections to those in need, such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR).

“Next year is for us to implement changes that have been delayed for decades, including the rationalisation of subsidies,” he said at an event here today.

“Even when we lift the subsidies for chicken, it turns out that prices are more controlled than before.

“Even if there is a price hike, we will not change our stance on the rationalisation of subsidies. We will provide STR, a direct fund injection from the government, instead.”

On June 13, Anwar said he has no issue with flip-flopping on public policies if these decisions help the people.

This came after the government decided to maintain subsidies for chicken and eggs, and the public services department’s scholarships for students pursuing studies in medicine, dentistry and pharmacy.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said he had decided not to proceed with floating the prices of chicken and eggs in the market from July 1, after considering the recommendation of the agriculture and food security, as well as the domestic trade and cost of living ministries.

However, in the 2024 budget, he announced that the government decided to lift the price controls on both chicken and eggs and let market forces determine prices.

Agriculture and food security minister Mohamad Sabu had said the government was confident the move to float the price of chicken would not lead to a sudden increase in prices.

He said this is because the production of chicken in the country is still sufficient.