By Mahathir Mohd Rais
Entering the year 2024, the country now finds itself entangled in a complex web of political speculation and deepening economic challenges.
The main issue dominating the nation’s political discourse is the ‘Langkah Dubai’ saga, pointing to an alleged secret meeting in Dubai, supposedly with the intention of overthrowing the current government. Although these rumors have captured public attention, they are increasingly seen as potentially fabricated distractions from more pressing issues.
The introduction of a 10 per cent sales tax on certain online goods, implemented a week ago to level the playing field between local and foreign products, has quickly become a point of contention.
The rakyat, already facing job instability and reduced household budgets, view this as an additional financial burden, exacerbating their economic difficulties.
This pressure is further intensified by the government’s failure to control the prices of essential goods, especially eggs and vegetables.
The impact of these price hikes is profoundly felt by the low-income group, increasing the burden of daily living.
Moreover, the devaluation of the ringgit, reaching its lowest value against the US dollar in 25 years, also contributes significantly to the economic woes of the rakyat.
This decline in currency value, coupled with rising commodity prices, is a major factor in the current cost of living crisis.
The rakyat are not only struggling with a political narrative but are also deeply affected by these ‘real’ issues.
The increase in the cost of living is not just a topic of political discussion but a significant crisis affecting the lives of ordinary citizens.
In this scenario, even though the ‘Langkah Dubai’ controversy continues to attract national attention, it pales in comparison to the more urgent and ongoing economic difficulties faced by the rakyat.
The real story that requires immediate attention and action is the rising cost of living and the economic hardship of the rakyat, not Langkah Dubai.
About the author: Mahathir Mohd Rais is the Bersatu Federal Territories information chief. This is an opinion column. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of this publication.
Media & PR: editor@dailystraits.com. Copyright 2021–Present DailyStraits.com. All rights reserved.