COST-SAVING MOVE DEMONSTRATES GOVT'S STRONG COMMITMENT TO PRUDENT FISCAL MANAGEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR, March 12 (Bernama) -- The government’s cost-saving measures, including not holding Aidilfitri open houses and limiting overseas trips by ministers and officials, underscores its commitment to more disciplined fiscal management.

The announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim drew praise from various segments of society, including consumer associations, youth groups and members of the public, many of whom described it as a proactive approach to reviewing non-critical spending.

In PENANG, Permatang Pauh Youth Committee member Nur Liyana Sa’idin said the cost-saving measures were timely, especially in the face of global economic uncertainty, and reflected the government’s commitment to prudent and responsible management of national spending.

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“Channeling these savings into vital sectors like development, education, and helping those in need can deliver significant benefits to the people,” she told Bernama.

In NEGERI SEMBILAN, Presiden IKON Malaysia Mia Nurhamizah Abdul Ghapar said the government’s cost-saving initiatives were a constructive step towards ensuring national funds are used for more significant objectives.

“I believe the decision on the government’s cost-saving measures is appropriate to prevent wastage and ensure prudent management of domestic spending,” she said.

The same sentiment was expressed by Ahmad Mustafar Ismail, a 44-year-old private sector employee, who said the decision demonstrated the government’s commitment to shielding the country amid possible impacts from the West Asian conflict.

“For me, this is the best approach to save. Skipping an open house is not an issue, as Raya can still be celebrated joyfully, even in a modest setting,” he said.

In SARAWAK, fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia Prof Datuk Dr Jayum Jawan described the move as a prudent measure, especially in the handling of public funds.

He said political leaders in Sarawak could also take similar steps by reconsidering plans to hold a large-scale Gawai celebration, which could involve substantial expenditure.

“Public funds should be used responsibly and generate a meaningful impact on the well-being of the people.

“In light of the current uncertain global economic situation, measures to control spending can help ensure that national funds are used more effectively for the people’s well-being,” he said.

In KELANTAN, 35-year-old teacher Noorsofea Qistina Abdul Rahman said the move reflected the government’s prudent approach amid current economic uncertainties.

“I think this is a great step because the government can save money for more important things, like helping people or improving health and education facilities,” she said.

Azizul Izwan Abdullah, 45, a private sector worker, said the cost-saving measures demonstrated the government’s commitment to disciplined management of national finances.

In SABAH, SME Association of Sabah president Dr Deledda Tan said the cost-cutting initiative was appropriate, as it would help the government prepare for any economic challenges or a rise in oil prices amid the current geopolitical situation.

“It’s a good move for the government to scale down spending because it allows them to save money and prepare in case any crisis occurs. We cannot foresee whether there will be a crisis or not, but we can anticipate it. Oil prices have already gone up in other countries,” she said.

Deledda said, however, that festive celebrations could still go ahead on a smaller scale, allowing the country’s rich multicultural traditions to be preserved while keeping spending in check.

She said that holding the event on a smaller scale would not only help the government save on expenses but also allow small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to benefit from business opportunities during the festive season.

Yesterday, Anwar announced several cost-saving measures, including not organising an Aidilfitri open house this year and limiting overseas visits by ministers and officials, as part of efforts to manage spending amid global economic uncertainty stemming from conflicts in West Asia.

--BERNAMA