Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for urgent attention to the concerns of Malaysians facing higher electricity bills, announcing a special meeting tomorrow to review measures that could ease the financial burden on affected households.
The meeting will bring together the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), the Energy Commission (EC), Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) and the Ministry of Finance (MoF). Its main focus will be to examine immediate mitigation measures to reduce the impact of the electricity bill increase on households.
The announcement comes as concerns grow among consumers over rising electricity costs, particularly those whose monthly usage has increased during the recent hotter weather and haze conditions.
Anwar said that even after returning from his official visit to India and the Maldives, the concerns of the people remained a priority. He acknowledged the complaints raised by Malaysians and stressed that the matter must be addressed without delay.
“I have heard the complaints raised, and this matter needs to be given attention and addressed immediately,” Anwar said in a statement.
The Prime Minister, who also serves as Finance Minister, reaffirmed that the government would continue its targeted subsidy approach, with the aim of protecting the majority of Malaysians while ensuring assistance is delivered fairly.
According to Anwar, around 80 per cent of domestic electricity users who consume no more than 600 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month remain protected and are not affected by the rate increase linked to higher fuel costs this year.
However, the situation becomes more challenging for households whose electricity consumption has risen beyond the 600 kWh monthly threshold. Anwar explained that the recent hot weather and haze conditions have contributed to increased electricity use among some households, potentially pushing their monthly consumption into a higher cost bracket.
When usage exceeds the threshold, affected consumers may become subject to the Automatic Fuel Cost Adjustment (AFA), a mechanism linked to changes in fuel costs.
For families already managing rising household expenses, an increase in electricity bills can create additional pressure. Higher cooling needs, longer use of fans and air conditioners, and other daily electricity demands can make it more difficult for some households to stay within their usual consumption levels.
The special meeting is therefore expected to examine how immediate relief measures can be considered for those facing the impact of the increase. The involvement of PETRA, the Energy Commission, TNB and the Finance Ministry reflects the need for coordination between energy policy, electricity regulation, the national utility provider and government finances.
Anwar said the Madani government would continue to ensure that targeted subsidies are implemented fairly and reasonably, while keeping the interests and well-being of the people as a priority.
The meeting comes at a time when electricity bills are more than just monthly expenses for many families. They affect how households manage their budgets, plan for essential needs and cope with changing weather conditions. For consumers who have already raised concerns, the review offers an opportunity for their experiences to be considered as the government examines possible solutions.
As Malaysians wait for the outcome of tomorrow’s discussion, the key question is how the government will balance rising energy costs with the need to protect households from financial strain. Any relief measures that emerge from the meeting will be closely watched by consumers, especially those whose electricity usage has increased beyond the protected threshold.
For now, the government’s message is clear: public concerns have been heard, and the impact of higher electricity bills requires immediate attention.
Source: Bernama
