KOTA TINGGI: The government has recovered RM15.5bil from financial leakages over the past two years, helping to cushion the cost of subsidies amid a global energy crisis, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said Malaysia is currently spending about RM6bil a month on subsidies, but efforts to plug leakages have strengthened the government’s fiscal position.
“Some people ask how we can survive. We now have to pay subsidies of RM6bil a month.
“But thank Allah, in the past few years, through our efforts to fight leakages, we recovered RM15.5bil in public funds.
“We must identify where the leakages occurred and ensure they are stopped,” he said after meeting Felda settlers at Felda Semenchu on Sunday (April 5).
Anwar stressed that strong political will, institutional capacity and an effective workforce are crucial to ensure sound financial management.
He added that the government is continuing to address global economic challenges while maintaining subsidies to ease the burden on the rakyat.
“Although costs are rising, we are maintaining subsidies so that the people are not burdened like in countries facing much higher fuel prices.
“This is a major economic challenge. If the situation does not improve within one or two months, the impact will reach every village,” he said.
On a separate matter, Anwar assured that the Felda development agenda would continue to be strengthened.
He also announced an allocation of RM500,000 to upgrade basic facilities at Felda Semenchu.
“Although no specific request was submitted, I saw the needs in this area and the government will ensure assistance is channelled for the people’s well-being,” he said.
He also called on the public to remain united and patient, and to manage daily expenses prudently.
