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KUALA LUMPUR: Former Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamad says the government should not give out cash to those whose income has not been affected by the pandemic.
Mahathir (Ind-Langkawi) said that the pandemic and the March closure had put special pressure on the poor, and some had completely lost their source of income.
“On the contrary, many people who earn a salary still receive the full salary. Normally, their wages are more than enough to support their daily needs. And the government will give them another 500 RM.
“What need does the government have to increase their income when their salaries are more than enough to finance their daily needs?
Instead, aid should be given to workers who have lost their jobs and sources of income. They cannot even pay their daily sustenance, ”he said today during the debate on the 2021 budget proposals.
Mahathir also voiced his support for ministers to accept a 30% pay cut, saying that they would still not suffer from hunger despite the decrease in pay compared to food stall operators.
He said the government must prioritize people who have even been pushed to the brink of depression and suicide, and said that many were suffering and feeling hopeless after losing their jobs.
While acknowledging the 24 million ringgit earmarked for mental health programs, he called for certain expenditures to be delayed to prioritize additional funds to address issues such as depression.
“These cases must be dealt with as soon as possible. Programs to help them must be more holistic. This is where the government should spend money, ”he said.
