CYBERJAYA: The memorandum of understanding (MOU) on equal allocation for MPs is still open for negotiation, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said the draft MOU has not been finalised and can still be amended following further discussions.
He noted that there had been five meetings with the committee handling the proposed allocation for MPs, including three where he had also met opposition representatives.
“Hold the meetings first. The draft MOU can still be amended,” he told reporters when met after launching the 29th Hari Hasil celebration here yesterday.
Anwar was responding to claims by Perikatan Nasional chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin that the conditions imposed by the government for equal allocation were too strict and unfair.
As such, Muhyiddin said, it was a valid reason for the opposition coalition’s decision to reject the draft MOU.
Meanwhile, Anwar chided some opposition MPs for claiming that they are financially struggling and in debt due to the lack of allocations.
“Some say they are poor and in debt, but do you know how much an MP makes if you include all their allowances?
Open for discussion: Anwar delivering a speech at the 29th Hari Hasil celebration at Menara Hasil in Cyberjaya. — Bernama
“It can reach between RM30,000 and RM40,000. So, it’s not that they don’t have money,” he said.
Anwar said the Opposition made use of the issue to gain political mileage both in and outside of Parliament.
“Why make such noise and commotion on the outside just to be a street warrior?” he questioned.
Anwar added that the difference with regard to the proposed distribution of equal allocation is how the funds would be channelled.
“Allocation for the proposed projects will not go directly to the MP but to their constituency and the rakyat. The only difference is whether it goes directly to the rakyat or through the MP’s proposal,” he said.
Anwar added that the respective MPs will still have a role to play in providing their feedback for allocations for the proposed projects.
He also dismissed the Opposition’s claims that lack of the allocation is a burden on the rakyat.
