Asian Insider: Malaysia Edition helps you connect the dots on the biggest stories playing out in Malaysia every week. Sign up here to get the newsletter in your inbox.
Amid spiralling fuel costs, Malaysians are again being asked by the government to “ubah gaya hidup” – meaning change your lifestyle – a phrase now used mockingly, much like “Malaysia Boleh”.
From encouraging people to work from home to waking up early to beat the morning rush, the exhortations from the Anwar Ibrahim administration on various ways to save fuel are probably well-meaning.
But there is a clear element of “do as I say, not as I do.” Government officials continue to traverse the country with entourages, and Prime Minister Anwar has taken helicopter rides that some detractors feel were unnecessary photo ops.
Our correspondent Hadi Azmi found that many Malaysians he spoke to considered the government’s advice overbearing and even hypocritical.
“Maybe if our leaders did the same, there would be no need for all these motorcades that anger the public. Kill two birds with one stone!” one commuter told him.
Whether you’re stuck at home or in traffic, we hope our coverage of Malaysia will keep you company. Check out our selection of stories this week, and if you have feedback for the bureau, do let us know.
How Malaysia’s fuel crisis exposed its leaders’ double standards
Can cheaper latte, starting the day early solve KL’s traffic jams?
How your JB mall experience will change when the RTS Link opens
Five overhead pedestrian bridges will link the station to the rest of the city centre.
Dr Mahathir says he has lost control of his leg
Malaysians rethinking trips to S’pore due to 2027 VEP hike
KL’s loyal ‘traffic dog’ gets new name after rescue
