PUTRAJAYA: Budget 2023 should get support from the Opposition as it is part of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) that was signed last year, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
The Prime Minister said the Opposition would be roped in for their views and discussions on the Budget.
“As per the MOU, the Opposition will give their support if the Budget and proposed amendments to the Federal Constitution are tabled.
“They must support the Budget, unless the general election is called before that,” the Prime Minister said in an interview with the media in conjunction with his one year in office.
When pressed further, Ismail Sabri said he was merely giving a scenario.
“I’m just giving an example,” said the Prime Minister, amused by the media’s excitement.
The MOU was signed on Sept 13 last year, paving the way for a bipartisan and consensus approach to bringing stability and reform to the nation.
Ismail Sabri said Budget 2023, planned for October tabling at the Dewan Rakyat, would not only focus on people-centric initiatives but would also detail Malaysia’s plans to face a possible global economic crisis next year.
He said while the nation’s economic performance was now on firm footing and on track to recovery, there were uncertainties on how the global economy would perform in 2023.
“Therefore, the Budget will prepare the country to face challenges brought about by a possible global economic slowdown. We will make known the details in the Budget,” he said.
According to the World Bank, global growth will slow through 2023 while the International Monetary Fund is not ruling out a possible global recession.
The Prime Minister said the Budget would touch on people from all walks of life and all segments of society.
It would continue to place emphasis on the welfare of the people, he said, adding that despite financial constraints, the people are still the priority.
“Engagement sessions are ongoing to get input and views for the Budget. We will engage all stakeholders,” he said.
According to Parliament’s calendar, Oct 28 has been slotted for this.
