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Why mention ‘T15’ if definition not finalised, says Syed Saddiq

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Budget Tabling and the Critique of Premature Announcements: A Call to Reconsider

Government Should Not Make Premature Announcements, Says Syed Saddiq

Petaing Jaya: Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman has raised concerns over the premature announcement made by the government regarding the "T15" income group in the recent budget tabling.

The government, led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, announced that the top 15% of consumers, who are considered "mahakaya" or extremely wealthy, will enjoy RM8 billion in RON95 petrol subsidies annually. However, Syed Saddiq questioned why the government made such an announcement when the definition of the "T15" group has yet to be finalized.

Targeted Subsidies: A Divisive Approach?

The government’s plans for targeted subsidies in petrol, healthcare, and education have been criticized for being overly complex and potentially unfair. The announcement sparked concerns that the government is intent on creating a divide between the "haves" and the "have-nots".

Syed Saddiq’s commentary on the matter was straightforward: "Don’t ‘announce first, think later’. People’s lives are at stake." He emphasized that the government should prioritize the well-being of the majority of the population, rather than singling out a specific group.

Clarification Needed on Income Thresholds and Eligibility

Finance Minister Amir Hamzah Azizan acknowledged that the government is still working on determining the income threshold to ensure targeted subsidies for petrol, healthcare, and education reach the right groups. However, more clarity is needed on how this will be achieved, given the complexity of the issue.

Rafizi Ramli’s Rebuttal

Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli later clarified that the targeted subsidy for RON95 petrol would not be solely based on household income. He emphasized that other factors will be considered, but did not elaborate on what these factors might be.

Conclusion

Syed Saddiq’s critique of the government’s approach serves as a timely reminder to be cautious of premature announcements that may have far-reaching consequences. As the government continues to grapple with the intricacies of targeted subsidies, it is essential to prioritize transparency and clarity in its communication to the public.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the T15 income group?
    The T15 income group refers to the top 15% of consumers, who are considered "mahakaya" or extremely wealthy.
  • What is the purpose of targeted subsidies in the 2025 budget?
    The government has announced plans to provide targeted subsidies in petrol, healthcare, and education to specific groups, with the aim of reducing inequality.
  • How will the government determine the income threshold for targeted subsidies?
    The government is still working on determining the income threshold to ensure targeted subsidies reach the right groups, but more clarity is needed on this issue.
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