KUCHING, July 21: Save money by stopping all unnecessary ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ nationwide tours, instead of halting new projects whereby some are much-needed by the people, says Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth (DAPSY) Kuching chief Michael Kong.
He said the government has spent RM5 million so far on promotional materials for the campaign, which is intended to only boost the prime minister’s image.
“A total of RM5 million has been spent thus far on promotional material including the communication plan, short videos, audio recordings, television time slots, billboards, social media campaigns, infographics and brochures.
“More will be spent as the prime minister shows no signs of slowing down on this self-branding exercise which does not help the people at all,” he said.
To cut costs, Kong also proposed to the government to downsize the current cabinet of 32 ministers, 38 deputy ministers and 6 appointments with ministerial rank.
By just downsizing the cabinet to 25 ministers and 25 deputy ministers, he said, the government would save at least RM15 million in annual salary and allowances alone.
He opined that all ministers and deputy ministers should donate 20 per cent of their salaries and allowances, which would save another RM5 million to be used on more useful expenses.
He said the wage hike for Sabah Chief Minister, Sabah cabinet members and assemblymen should be delayed, and have this RM5.6 million in annual pay diverted for the people’s welfare.
“While cutting costs, the government has to ensure that such cost-cutting does not affect the continued development of the nation and Malaysians.
“Malaysians have already suffered enough with the increase in the cost of living and should not have to suffer more especially with the elected officials living lavishly and comfortably,” said Kong in a statement today.
On July 17, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Economy) Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed said the government is taking measures to save public expenditure by postponing or not continuing any project that has yet to commence.
Mustapha said this is to enable money to be channelled for the welfare of the people, apart from efforts made toward the country’s economic recovery. — DayakDaily
