KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia August 5, 2025 – In a fiery address during Prime Minister’s Question Time (PMQT) in the Dewan Rakyat, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim accused the opposition of employing a “double standard” in their criticism of utility costs, highlighting how electricity bills have decreased for the public since July while water tariffs rise in several states without similar outcry.
Anwar emphasized that Malaysians have already received lower electricity bills for July, with an average reduction of 8%, countering repeated opposition claims of increases. “The people have gotten their electricity bills for July, and prices have dropped,” he stated. “If someone pays more, it’s due to higher usage, but overall, there’s an 8% decrease.”
Turning to water tariffs, the Prime Minister noted recent hikes in Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu—states under opposition-led governments—yet the critics remain silent. “But there’s no mention of water prices rising,” Anwar remarked. “If it’s under the Federal Government, all sorts of accusations are thrown, but when they do it, it’s fine. This is the reality when facts are sidelined for dirty and dishonest political narratives.”
Key points from Anwar’s remarks include:
– Electricity tariffs have been adjusted downward, benefiting the majority, with targeted increases only for high-usage consumers and foreigners to ensure fairness.
– Water price increases are state-level decisions, often justified by infrastructure needs and debts, as cited in letters from state governments requesting federal assistance.
– In contrast, Selangor has implemented water tariff adjustments without burdening low-income households, earning praise from the Prime Minister.
– The opposition’s selective criticism ignores necessities for hikes, such as operational costs, while attacking federal policies indiscriminately.
Anwar urged a focus on facts over political opportunism, reiterating the MADANI government’s commitment to equitable reforms. “We don’t prohibit states from making these decisions if there’s a need,” he added. “But why the double standard? For electricity, we raise it for the wealthy and foreigners, yet it’s attacked, while water affects everyone.”
The session underscored ongoing debates on subsidy rationalization and cost-of-living measures under the Malaysia MADANI framework. For the full video and remarks, visit the official Parliament portal or Anwar’s social media channels.