THE use of the word “sabotage” by a backbencher in relation to allocations under the Rural and Regional Development Ministry sparked a heated exchange during debates on Budget 2027.
RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) questioned a recent statement by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi that the people of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as rural communities in Peninsular Malaysia, had been affected by the cancellation of development projects.
Rayer said the remarks by Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, contradicted Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan’s explanation that no allocations had been cut or withdrawn, leaving the public confused.
“The statement made by Bagan Datuk suggested that allocations for Sabah and Sarawak had been sacrificed,” he said, referring to Ahmad Zahid’s constituency.
He added that the remarks gave the impression that Ahmad Zahid and the Madani government were unconcerned about infrastructure issues affecting Sabah and Sarawak, as well as rural communities in Peninsular Malaysia.
“However, the Finance Minister II has explained that no cuts have been made and no funds have been withdrawn from those allocations.
“If I am confused, imagine how much more confused the public must be. Is Bagan Datuk trying to sabotage the Madani government?” he said.
Rayer claimed that Ahmad Zahid’s remarks had sparked controversy, with many MPs and members of the public in Sabah and Sarawak expressing anger towards the government.
The issue had also been raised earlier by Chong Zhemin (PH-Kampar) during his debate.
Rayer’s use of the word “sabotage” drew strong objection from Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim (PN-Arau), who described it as an improper allegation, particularly when directed at the Deputy Prime Minister.
Shahidan noted that the term was usually associated with security matters and should not be used lightly.
“This is the Deputy Prime Minister of the country.
“We cannot make such an allegation against him, especially when we are in the same government,” Shahidan said.
He described Rayer’s remark as a malicious imputation and called on Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul to intervene.
Datuk Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar (BN-Kinabatangan) also challenged Rayer to substantiate his allegation of sabotage.
Rayer stood by his remarks and further alleged that there was collusion with the Opposition to sabotage the Madani government.
Johari, who repeatedly called for order in the House, told Rayer to submit a motion if he wanted Ahmad Zahid referred to the Rights and Privileges Committee.
The heated exchange ended after Johari instructed Datuk Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff (PN-Rantau Panjang) to continue with the Budget debate.
