BUKIT MERTAJAM: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has pledged to do his utmost to alleviate the hardships faced by the lower-income population, particularly those in the B40 group. 

Speaking at a Hari Raya Aidiladha gathering at Masjid Jamek Cherok Tok Kun, Anwar emphasised his dedication to finding ways to reduce their financial burdens.

"If there are ways, I will endeavour to do it," he said.

Citing the drop in the egg prices, Anwar said they did a study and found that Malaysians, particularly those in the lower income group, consumed large quantities of eggs.

"For families in the middle and lower income group, especially the B40, they consumed four eggs a day. They substituted meat with eggs.

"As such, we called the companies concerned to discuss. We asked how much profit they are making and if it is possible to reduce it. 

"We are not talking about losses but making less profit to reduce the people's burden.

"That is why I announced a drop in egg prices yesterday," he said.

It was reported that the retail price of grade A, B and C eggs across the country would be reduced by three sen per egg effective today.

The retail price for grade A, B and C chicken eggs would be 42 sen, 40 sen and 38 sen respectively.

The provision of subsidies of 10 sen per chicken egg involved an expenditure of RM100 million, and in 2023, the government spent RM927 on subsidies for chicken eggs. 

As such, Anwar said if there were other ways to reduce the people's burden, he would find a way to do it.

"I want to say this as we may not hear this on the ground," he added.

Anwar said what was important was that they did not take the companies' profits or shares.

"We don't allow our children or their spouses to sell cooking oil.

"We also don't allow them to take any contracts.

"And what is even more important is that we are brave to take actions," he said.

Anwar said he was grateful that he led the country now after years of waiting.

"It is very different. At my age, my interest is not in riches or assets. My children have grown up and can fend for themselves.

"My priority is to take care of the country now," he stressed.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/1065182/pm-vows-ease-financial-strain-lower-income-families