Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stated that the total subsidy for this year is expected to exceed RM81 billion. The Prime Minister mentioned that the government’s subsidies include electricity, fuel, and food, and emphasized that reducing the subsidies without considering the needs of the people is not an option for the government. The government aims to ensure that the people are not burdened by the current high cost of living. Therefore, the rationalization of subsidies is crucial to ensure that people receive assistance while maintaining a strong national economy.
Anwar explained that subsidies are intended to alleviate the people’s burden. The government currently provides subsidies amounting to RM3.8 billion for chicken and eggs, and reducing them would lead to an increase in the cost of living. He further highlighted the importance of implementing a more resilient policy to reduce subsidies, hence the need for rationalization.
During the launch of the Islamic Affairs Management Convention at Sabah International Convention Centre, Anwar argued that no country can survive with such a high amount of subsidies. As part of the rationalization measures, the electricity subsidy for the wealthiest 1% has been eliminated, but it has not affected the remaining 99% of the population. Anwar also mentioned that he recently urged Tabung Haji to review all subsidies related to the cost of performing pilgrimage for the rich. The aim is to redirect the subsidy towards more needy Muslims.
Anwar expressed his request for the richest Muslims to forgo subsidies for the cost of the hajj pilgrimage in order to assist other pilgrims. He stated that there are 400 eligible pilgrims who have voluntarily declined the subsidy to help others cover the expenses of the hajj.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
