Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced a package of measures aimed at easing the cost of living, including a 100 ringgit ($24) cash handout for all adult citizens.
In a televised address on Wednesday, Anwar said the assistance would benefit 22 million Malaysians and be redeemable at more than 4,000 stores from August 31 to December 31.
Anwar said the government would also reduce the price of subsidised petrol from 2.05 ringgit per liter (2.6 gallons) to 1.99 ringgit per liter for citizens, and freeze planned hikes in toll rates on 10 highways.
An extra public holiday will also be scheduled for 15 September this year to coincide with Malaysia Day, the holiday marking federation, Anwar said.
