KUALA LUMPUR – The government has reiterated its commitment to improving the delivery mechanism of targeted subsidies, including those related to electricity, diesel, petrol and other social assistance.
During his tabling of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) mid-term review (MTR) in the Dewan Rakyat today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (Tambun-PH) said this commitment is part of five initiatives to improve the nation’s fiscal sustainability.
“The government carries the responsibility of defending citizens, especially those who are less privileged. As such, the targeted subsidy mechanism aims to ensure that such groups secure benefits from the channelled aid.
“The distribution of targeted subsidies will be coordinated through the Centralised Database Hub (Padu) based on household data to ensure the efficiency and overwatch of government aid.
“Savings from targeted subsidies can then be redistributed to development projects and programs for the benefit of the people.”
On May 15, Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, said Padu would assist the government in implementing targeted subsidies and enacting relevant policies more effectively.
Previously, he was reported as saying that the government would implement targeted subsidies after identifying a suitable mechanism.
Earlier this year, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said discussions between his ministry and the National Economic Action Council had been initiated over the types of aid to be provided under the new plan for targeted subsidies. – September 11, 2023