THE Finance Ministry’s response defending the government’s overseas travels raises an important question: if these international engagements are necessary and serve Malaysia’s strategic interests, the government must be transparent and clearly demonstrate the outcomes and benefits gained from these trips.
By demonstrating how these overseas visits have contributed towards attracting foreign investments and international students, creating economic hubs and employment opportunities, strengthening technology and AI transfer, expanding tourism, enhancing trade and diplomatic relations, promoting cultural and educational exchanges, and delivering tangible benefits to the rakyat, the government would strengthen public confidence that taxpayers' money has been spent prudently and effectively.
Travelling overseas for official purposes is not the issue. The concern is whether these expenses provide sufficient returns, especially at a time when the government is implementing spending rationalisation measures and Malaysians are being asked to accept tighter fiscal management.
This concern is even more pressing when we look at the current challenges faced by our public healthcare system. While the government assures that essential services will not be affected, healthcare workers on the ground continue to highlight serious issues affecting the delivery of quality medical care.
Many medical officers, specialists, nurses and healthcare professionals have exited the Health Ministry to join the private sector or seek opportunities overseas due to concerns over workload, career progression, remuneration and working conditions.
The loss of experienced healthcare personnel places additional pressure on those who remain in the public system.
At the same time, many public hospitals continue to face longstanding problems, including ageing infrastructure, overcrowded facilities, shortages of essential medicines (prescription given but patients need to self-purchase), insufficient equipment and the urgent need to upgrade outdated medical technology. Healthcare workers and patients should not have to bear the burden of a system struggling with resource constraints.
If the government can justify overseas travels as necessary investments for Malaysia’s future, then it must also show the same commitment in investing in our healthcare system - by retaining our medical officers and specialists, supporting our nurses, upgrading hospital facilities and ensuring patients receive timely and quality treatment.
The government must provide a detailed breakdown of these overseas trips, including the objectives, costs, participating officials and measurable outcomes achieved.
Transparency and accountability are essential to maintain public confidence. Malaysians deserve assurance that every ringgit spent, whether locally or overseas delivers real value for the country and improves the lives of her citizens.
DATUK DR MAH HANG SOON
MCA Deputy President
