Large-Scale Protest Erupts in Kuala Lumpur: Nearly 20,000 Shout “Anwar Step Down” | WPN World People News

A massive protest broke out in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, on the 26th, with police estimating around 18,000 people taking to the streets demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Many demonstrators wore black clothing and black headbands, holding signs such as “Anwar Step Down” to protest against what they see as poor governance, worsening livelihoods, and broken reform promises.

According to a Reuters report, the main drivers of public anger include skyrocketing living costs and the government’s failure to deliver on reform pledges. Anwar came to power in 2022 as a reformist but has since implemented several controversial policies, such as raising the sales and service tax (SST) and cutting subsidies to increase government revenue. These measures have been criticized for pushing up prices and placing a heavier burden on ordinary citizens.

A 23-year-old protester, Nur Shahirah Leman, expressed concern over tax hikes and high electricity charges imposed on large corporations, believing the cost will ultimately be passed down to consumers.

In addition to economic and livelihood issues, the Anwar administration is also facing accusations of judicial interference and weak anti-corruption efforts. Recent decisions by prosecutors to drop corruption charges against ruling coalition allies, along with delays in appointing the Chief Justice of the Federal Court, have drawn criticism that Anwar is trying to manipulate the judiciary — allegations he has repeatedly denied.

Notably, former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who recently turned 100 years old, also made an appearance at the protest. Addressing the crowd, he accused Anwar of abusing his power to suppress dissent, saying, “Innocent people are prosecuted, while the guilty walk free.”

Mahathir and Anwar, once mentor and protégé, have had a long and tumultuous relationship that has defined Malaysian politics for nearly three decades. They briefly reunited in 2018 to defeat the long-ruling Barisan Nasional coalition, but their political alliance collapsed in less than two years due to internal strife, turning them back into rivals.

This protest highlights that Anwar is facing not only economic and governance challenges but also fierce resistance from veteran political opponents, suggesting that Malaysia’s political landscape may become even more volatile in the future.