According to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, the Cabinet has not yet had a detailed discussion about the potential issue of subsidies for certain goods that foreign nationals may also receive. Fahmi, who is also the Unity Government’s spokesperson, stated that the government will carefully consider the matter to ensure that the subsidy program primarily benefits Malaysians who need it the most.
He mentioned, “For now, this matter has not been specifically discussed in the Cabinet.” This statement was made when he spoke with the press at the Penang Entrepreneurs Connectivity and Development Empowerment Carnival, which was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Seberang Perai Polytechnic on Friday (Feb 16).
In response to reports about Datuk Sarimah Ahmad, 82, asking a well-known producer to return the original tapes of four films she produced 36 years ago, Fahmi stated that he plans to look into the matter and will contact the veteran actress soon.
He said, “In cases like Datuk Sarimah’s, since it involves a specific matter between two contracting parties, I need a more detailed understanding of this case, and insya-Allah, we will try to see what we can do to help her.”
Fahmi acknowledged that resolving the issue may present challenges, but added that Sarimah had mentioned some general points that the ministry wants more specific information on.
He expressed, “We need to help ensure that artistes, those involved as cast and crew, understand what they are signing for, what benefits they receive. That’s why I have directed Finas (National Film Development Corporation Malaysia), for example, to provide a standard contract where certain things are included to ensure the welfare and future of those involved.”
