PBK chief: If M’sia can help rebuild Gaza, why not cut road tax, fuel prices, utility bills for flood relief

Voon Lee Shan
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By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 4: Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) has called on the Malaysian government to waive road tax and immediately reduce petrol prices, electricity bills, and taxes on imported goods to alleviate the hardship faced by Malaysians, particularly in the aftermath of recent devastating floods.

PBK president Voon Lee Shan emphasised that the “caring” government should prioritide its citizens’ welfare, just as it has extended aid to Gaza in rebuilding efforts following the recent conflict with Israel.

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“The Malaysian government intends to help rebuild Gaza after the war ended two weeks ago. This demonstrates compassion and recognition of the immense suffering faced by the people of Gaza.

“Malaysia’s leadership in humanitarian efforts should serve as an example for other nations that have yet to offer assistance,” he said in a statement today.

However, Voon questioned the government’s financial priorities, arguing that if Malaysia can afford to help rebuild Gaza, it suggests the country has sufficient funds, a growing economy, and a manageable national debt.

“We are all aware that the government’s revenue comes from taxes paid by citizens and businesses. Malaysians have contributed significantly, and as such, tax reductions should be implemented, as it appears that there is no immediate need for excessive revenue collection presently,” he asserted.

Voon stressed that the same humanitarian concern should be extended to Malaysians, particularly those in Sarawak and Sabah, who have suffered immense losses due to severe flooding.

“Although we are not at war, the devastation caused by the recent floods has been catastrophic. Many Sarawakians lost their homes, crops, and properties, while public infrastructure, including roads, sustained heavy damage, requiring extensive repairs. We need to go war against floods,” he said.

In light of this, Voon urged the government to provide immediate financial relief by reducing fuel and electricity costs and lowering tax burdens to ease the people’s struggles.

He also pointed out that the recent increase in civil servants’ salaries and the private sector’s minimum wage hike to RM1,700 had inadvertently driven up the cost of goods and services, further straining Malaysians’ finances.

“The salary and wage increases have not significantly benefited the people due to rising living costs. This is why we urge the government to start charity at home,” he added. — DayakDaily

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