Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim made several key announcements today (5 January) while delivering the 2026 New Year Address at the Monthly Assembly of the Prime Minister’s Department.
During his live broadcast, he announced an RM80 million allocation for Chinese primary schools this year to upgrade facilities, up from RM50 million previously. He also said the government will provide RM200 million to private religious schools.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim
Prime Minister announces RM100 SARA aid to all Malaysians aged 18 and above, back-to-school aid and more
For students, the government is setting aside RM800 million for this year’s back-to-school aid. Each student will receive RM150 to kick off the school year, according to China Press.
Anwar also highlighted the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiative, whereby RM100 will be credited to Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above starting 9 February. The aid is meant to help Malaysians cover daily expenses and celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year and Ramadan.
On another note, he announced a salary increase for judges, marking the first raise in 10 years, according to Berita Harian.
Prime Minister’s tenure capped at 10 years
Berita Harian also reported that Anwar said the government will table a bill to limit the Prime Minister’s tenure to a maximum of 10 years or two full terms.
He added that the bill is part of the government’s institutional reform efforts and is one of the key agendas for this year’s Parliamentary session.
“Everyone has a term limit, even the Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) cannot serve for ten years. This applies to all positions because once someone has completed their term and fulfilled their duties, it’s best to hand over to the next generation,” he said.
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Also read: Anthony Loke: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Will Make Several Important Announcements Tomorrow
