Saifuddin: PM prioritises economic recovery before fulfilling promises
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the prime minister took some time to fulfil his election promises due to the challenging economic conditions when he first assumed office.
"He inherited a country grappling with ballooning national debt, high inflation, rising unemployment, and relatively low foreign direct investment (FDI).
"As such, he needed time to address these issues, which is why he could not deliver on his promises sooner.
"But now, with inflation at 1.5 per cent, FDI at a record high and the ringgit strengthening against the US dollar, the strong economic indicators have created the right environment for him to now give back to the people.
"He ensured that recovery came first. Only then could he begin delivering these much-anticipated benefits to the people," he said when met at the Parliament building.
He said this when asked to comment on the announcement made by the prime minister earlier today.
He added that Anwar's approach was marked by fiscal discipline, anti-corruption efforts, and strict control over public spending.
"The prime minister is committed to curbing leakages, avoiding wastage, ensuring there is no overspending, and, most importantly, not tolerating any form of corruption. The goal has always been to restore the country's financial position," Saifuddin said.
Among the key initiatives announced by the prime minister today were one-off RM100 cash aid for all adult citizens via their MyKad under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme, which will be implemented for the first time; maintaining current toll rates; expanding Jualan Rahmah Madani; and RON95 petrol price to be lowered to RM1.99 per litre.
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