Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad delivers a sobering assessment of Malaysia’s economic reality heading into 2025. br br While government aid such as Budi Madani (BUDI 95) may offer temporary relief, Dr Mahathir argues that rising cost of living remains the biggest burden, especially for the lower-income rakyat.br br His verdict is clear: economic indicators may look good on paper but if the rakyat cannot afford daily essentials, the economy is failing its people.