Keep a close eye on deficit, says economist of manifestos


Kuala Lumpur: A prominent economist has highlighted that there was a need to continue on fiscal discipline path even post elections.

The Socio-Economic Research Centre’s executive director Lee Heng Guie said that while there was promises by the incumbent BN government of increasing handouts like the Brim, that these had to ultimately be paid through another budget allocation.

“It is a very big amount cumulatively and it has also increased. Plus they have also added another category or group of people that are eligible. In the bigger picture it is better to move on from just pure handouts and this should rightfully only target the very needy groups of people,” Lee said at a press conference.

“Irrespective of what the government would like to do, it is very important that the path to fiscal discipline of reducing deficits be kept on track,” he added.

Win a prize this Mother's Day by subscribing to our annual plan now! T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Business News

TNB, YTL Power spur market rally
Gold set for second weekly fall; US payrolls on investors' radar
MARC Ratings revises Tropicana’s ratings outlook to stable
Asian currencies, stocks strengthen as Fed hints dovish stance
ACE Market-bound Ocean Fresh signs underwriting deal
Oil prices set for steepest weekly drop in 3 months
DNB board to meet next week, to recommend 5G second network directions
Thai April inflation rises slightly, first time in 7 months
F&N allocates RM1.7bil capex for Phase 1 dairy farm project
Naza Group completes acquisition of 100% stake in Berjaya Enviro

Others Also Read