Anwar: TNB Tariff Hike Won't Impact 85% of Malaysians, Focus on Taxing the Rich

KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim assured that the planned electricity tariff hike by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) will not affect 85% of Malaysians, emphasizing that only industries and the wealthy will bear the increase.

During the Dewan Rakyat session, Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, defended the decision, stating that taxing the rich is crucial for funding essential services like schools and hospitals. He also sought to ease public concerns, clarifying that the rumoured 14% tariff increase will not apply to most users.

TNB's new tariff, set to take effect in 2025, proposes a base rate of 45.62 sen per kilowatt-hour, up from 39.95 sen under the current period. Anwar reiterated his commitment to ensuring that subsidies target those in need, rather than those who can afford higher prices.