What the leaders say

Works Minister Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu  

The Works Ministry allocation of RM6bil is reflective of the Barisan Nasional Government's commitment in ensuring that the rakyat's convenience is well taken care of.  

Primary Industries Minister Datuk Lim Keng Yaik 

The price of cigarettes has gone up but I hope this does not mean that the smuggling will go up accordingly. 

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak 

I am satisfied with the allocation to the Defence Ministry as we are able to continue our programme to modernise the armed forces. 

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin 

This is a people-friendly Budget where the emphasis is on domestic trade so that we are no longer dependent on foreign investments. 

Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn 

The RM319mil for industrial training programmes will enable the ministry to continue with its skills training agenda to increase the employability and marketability of Malaysians.  

Health Minister Datuk Chua Jui Meng 

The RM9bil allocation for health is a boon for the people, especially those who are in the lower income group as they can now enjoy better health services.  

Culture, Arts and Tourism Minister Datuk Paduka Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir 

Generally, it is the best Budget and addresses the root of problems in a brave manner. It has set a new direction for all of us to achieve greater development. 

Education Minister Tan Sri Musa Mohamad 

I hope the reduction in the interest rate for National Higher Education Fund loans, revised repayment method and expansion of the fund to cover students' final year of studies overseas will encourage more to seek tertiary education. 

Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Hishammuddin Hussein 

The RM245mil allocation will be used for a long-term investment to equip youths with knowledge. It will be used to upgrade and equip the National Youth Skills Training Institute. For the first time scholarships will be given as an incentive to athletes.  

Women and Family Development Minister Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil 

On behalf of the women in this country, I would like to thank our Prime Minister. Under his leadership, we have done well. He himself said we are able to stand tall not only in the national but also international arena. 

National Unity and Social Development Minister Datuk Dr Siti Zaharah Sulaiman 

There is a lot of windfall for the disabled. This shows that the Government is caring when it comes to the unfortunate. 

Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen 

The Budget is very socially sensitive, particularly to the women and handicapped. The incentives given are in line with what women have been fighting for all the while.  

Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang 

The Budget 2004 is a bait for the next elections. The government’s generous incentives for farmers and fishermen are clearly aimed at winning their support for the elections. 

DAP secretary-general Kerk Kim Hock 

He presented a farewell Budget to thank the people who have made him the longest-serving prime minister. It involved so many groups of people, including single mothers, pensioners and the handicapped.  

Keadilan president Datin Seri Wan Azizah Ismail 

For every Budget, the most important thing is the implementation of it. It may just look beautiful on paper but if the implementation is not carried out properly, then it will not be effective.