ISSUES surrounding the economy and the high cost of living continue to affect the people the most, a survey by Ilham Centre revealed.

It said the people wanted the government to focus and prioritise improving the nation’s economy and reduce the cost of living.

“The majority of the respondents hoped the prime minister and his team could do something to improve the nation’s economy.

“This is a positive opportunity for the prime minister and his cabinet as the government policy is already moving towards efforts strengthening the economy,” the think tank said in a statement today.

It noted that the Madani economic framework, the National Renewable Energy Policy and the Rahmah initiatives brought about various plans to reduce the high cost of living.

“The respondents credited the unity government for these efforts and this gives space to the government to increase support among the people.”

In the survey, 62% of the respondents said the government must work towards lowering the cost of living, followed by creating job opportunities (18%), giving more aid for people (10%), adding disposable income (5%) and bringing in more investments (5%).

The survey was conducted from July 11 to 27, covered 2,416 respondents from six states that will be going to the polls this Saturday.

The think tank said the findings were not reflective of the mood nationwide but was only limited to the six states facing elections. – August 10, 2023.