Former Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has voiced his concerns following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement of an additional public holiday for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.
The Prime Minister cited the move as a token of appreciation for Malaysians’ hard work, but to Zaid, the decision could have a negative impact on the country.
Datuk zaid ibrahim
“Anwar relishes the power to declare public holidays”
In his remarks, Zaid sarcastically addressed Anwar’s long-standing ambition to become Prime Minister, suggesting that part of the role’s appeal lies in the authority it grants, specifically the power to declare public holidays at will.
“He relishes the power to declare public holidays on any day he wants,” Zaid wrote in a Facebook post.
According to Zaid, this authority was on full display when the Prime Minister announced the extra day off for the festive season. This stands in contrast to 2024, when the Prime Minister refused to grant additional holidays, stating that Malaysians “need to have the spirit to work.”
Economic contradictions and costs
Zaid highlighted what he viewed as a significant contradiction in recent government messaging. Only days prior, Anwar had reportedly advised government departments against organising large-scale Hari Raya “open-house” events, citing concerns over an anticipated economic slowdown and the need for fiscal prudence.
The former Law Minister argued that while the directive aimed to reduce unnecessary spending, the decision to add a public holiday appeared inconsistent with such cost-saving measures. He estimated that a single nationwide holiday could cost the economy at least RM1 billion in lost productivity and economic activity.
On Sunday (15 March), the Prime Minister officially announced the extra holiday alongside the implementation of the Skim Harga Maksimum Musim Perayaan (SHMMP) Aidilfitri 2026. Running from 14 to 28 March, the scheme aims to keep the prices of essential goods under control across the country.
What are your thoughts on the additional Raya holiday? Do you think the economic cost outweighs the benefit of the break?
Also read: “Don’t lose your manners” – M’sian Preacher Urges Muslims to Stop ‘Shameless’ Duit Raya Dance Trend
