Malaysia’s Anwar Ibrahim is expected to roll out a populist budget on Friday aimed at placating voter concerns over the cost of living and access to essential services, experts say, as the prime minister seeks to shore up support ahead of a general election that could be called as soon as next year.
Anwar’s coalition government is under mounting pressure amid a deepening feud with
Umno. The Malay nationalist party, a key partner in Anwar’s administration, has demanded a snap poll after defeating the ruling
Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition in recent state elections.
The political fallout could force Anwar to call for a national election ahead of the February 2028 deadline – especially if PH fails to secure a strong result in the coming Melaka state poll.
Anwar is expected to present an expansionary budget for 2027, with experts predicting higher cash handouts and targeted subsidies, increased spending on education and healthcare and measures to support higher wages and skills training for lower-income Malaysians.
