KUALA LUMPUR, July 28 — Tens of thousands of Malaysians took to the streets of the capital in a major show of dissent against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration. Dubbed the “Turun Anwar” rally, the opposition-led protest centred around public frustration over escalating living costs, perceived failures in governance, and unmet reform pledges since Anwar assumed office in 2022.
Despite drizzling rain, protestors dressed in black gathered at key city landmarks before converging at Dataran Merdeka. Prominent opposition figures including former premiers Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin addressed the crowd, criticising Anwar’s leadership and accusing him of selective prosecution, judicial interference, and extravagant overseas travel with minimal domestic benefit. D
emonstrators voiced anger over higher prices, stagnant wages, and tokenistic aid measures such as the recent RM100 handout, demanding deeper systemic reforms and greater economic relief. Although police estimated the crowd at around 18,000, organisers claimed a significantly larger turnout, citing nationwide support and a growing call for accountability.
The rally ended peacefully with prayers and the national anthem, reinforcing what many described as a united, urgent plea for leadership change.
