He said it was why the government decided to implement the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) as well as the progressive wage and minimum wage policies, to help the people improve their quality of life and develop their ability to adapt.

Anwar said the economy will become weaker in terms of fiscal strength, ratings and investments, if reform efforts, such as targeted subsidies, are not carried out.

“The price of oil, flour, crude oil are all still low compared with neighbouring countries,” Anwar said during a town hall session as part of the unity government’s second anniversary programme and the 2024 national convention on public service reform, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre today.

Also present were deputy prime ministers,Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Fadillah Yusof, Cabinet members and chief secretary to the government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

Anwar said he hopes that all parties are ready to improve the country’s economic and fiscal capacity to make the Fiscal Responsibility Act a success.

He pointed out that subsidy rationalisation was also proposed by the previous government, but they did not dare to implement it.

He also described two years as too short a period to see the full effect of the government’s efforts to sustain the economy.

However, the prime minister expressed confidence that the government’s efforts will bear fruit with the cooperation of all the people, including the private sector, in ensuring that the government’s salary policy can be implemented and improve the people’s living standards.

“I am confident after seeing our performance in these past two years.

“Give (us) space and the new Malaysia will be seen as brave and great,” he said.