businesstoday.com.my | A recent survey by independent pollster Merdeka Center revealed that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has received a 55% approval rating in May 2025, marking a notable improvement from 43% in June last year. The federal government’s rating also climbed to 50%, up from 40% over the same period.
The survey, conducted between May 12 and May 23 with 1,208 registered voters nationwide, coincides with the halfway mark of Anwar’s MADANI administration. Merdeka Center noted that this boost in public confidence stems from a perception of greater political stability and ongoing institutional reforms such as the revived Parliamentary Services Act 2025. “Institutional reforms like the revived Parliamentary Services Act 2025 also signal a return to principled governance,” it said in a statement.
The centre observed that cost-of-living concerns, while still top of mind, have been partially mitigated by recent government initiatives. These include a minimum wage hike to RM1,700, targeted festive aid for civil servants and the continuation of fuel subsidies. Inflation stood at a three-year low of 1.4% in March 2025, while the economy expanded by 4.4% in the first quarter. “While the survey continues to show that the public’s top concerns remain the economy, the absence of price shocks despite the withdrawal of diesel fuel subsidies in 2024 has helped ease sentiments,” the centre added.
On the international stage, Anwar’s leadership was seen to have strengthened Malaysia’s diplomatic standing, with high-profile engagements such as hosting China’s President Xi Jinping and chairing ASEAN in 2025. “New investment deals, trade cooperation and leadership in Global South initiatives have bolstered his image at home,” said the centre.
Although dissatisfaction towards the federal government remains at 48%, it has eased from 58% a year earlier. The centre said the narrow margin between approval and disapproval reflects persistent concerns over the cost of living and apprehension over future subsidy cuts.
Public perception of the country’s direction has also shifted, with 43% of voters now believing Malaysia is heading in the right direction – up from 29% last June. Those who feel the country is on the wrong path declined to 50%, from 61% previously. “The major reasons for the wrong direction remain focused on the trajectory of the national economy and the performance of the current administration,” it said.
The demographic profile of respondents mirrored Malaysia’s electoral composition: 52% Malay, 29% Chinese, 7% Indian, 6% Muslim Bumiputra, and 6% Non-Muslim Bumiputra from Sabah and Sarawak. Interviews were conducted via both mobile and fixed-line telephones.