THE government has not ruled out the possibility of cutting ministerial salaries if the country’s economic situation becomes more challenging following the conflict in West Asia.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, however, stressed that the priority at the moment is to ensure that members of the administration provide the best service to the people, and that the salary rate of ministers in this country is currently relatively low compared to the responsibilities they carry.
“Our salaries are relatively low. What is important is that we serve well.
“And I have no problem, I do not take a salary. But the salary is their right as long as they work well, I think it is reasonable.
“However, there is no obstacle if the economic situation is more acute, so we can think about it,” he said.
He said this when met by the media after performing Friday prayers at the Cyberjaya Fire and Rescue Station Surau, today.
Commenting further, Anwar stressed that any decision on the matter would be made based on current needs and the country’s economic situation.
Previously, the media reported that the issue of cutting the leader’s salary was being examined by neighboring country, Indonesia.
It is part of the fiscal tightening measures and the proposal will be discussed at a Cabinet-level meeting in the near future, but so far there has been no official decision on the matter. – April 17, 2026
