Minister flags cost of living as concern ahead of Malaysian polls

Hanoi

THE cost of living is a key concern among Malaysian voters, according to a member of Prime Minister Najib Razak's cabinet, setting the stage for it to be a major campaign topic in polls expected within months.

There is a "general expectation" among the public that elections will be held in 2017, Trade Minister Mustapa Mohamed said in an interview last Friday in Hanoi, adding that it is up to Mr Najib to decide the "best moment to strike". The ruling coalition has been working hard to improve communications with voters even as it has been aided by a divided opposition.