KUCHING, Oct 14: Malaysian’s plan to implement targeted subsidies under the recently-announced Budget 2024 is unavoidable as no country in the world can continue to implement uncontrolled spending forever, says Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Chong Chieng Jen.
He described the proposed budget as a ‘painful budget’ in which a targeted approach to the subsidies will be implemented in phases, thus restructuring the whole subsidy system in the country.
“In a way, I think for a country to reform and go back on track to develop economic growth I think this style of restructuring of subsidies has to be carried out; it is unavoidable.
“This is because no country in the world can continue to spend uncontrollably forever,” he said when officiating at the Jualan Rahmah programme at Emart Moyan today.
He further said that despite restructuring the subsidy system, the federal government is also mindful of the needs of those from the B40 and M40 groups.
“That is why, besides the general subsidy on goods like petrol and diesel, which will be converted to targeted subsidies, I think there are more targeted subsidies like this Jualan Rahmah programme and other cash handouts to more needy families.
“I hope the general public will come together to help the country turn around and progress together,” he added.
The Jualan Rahmah programme is an initiative under the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) whereby people can buy essential goods at subsidised prices.
The partnership with Emart will see the programme be held on Oct 14 and 15. — DayakDaily
