PETALING JAYA, Nov 4 – Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says one of the major problems affecting the country’s growth is the lack of good governance.
He was speaking to a crowd of 150-odd people in Petaling Jaya here last night at a Pakatan Rakyat forum to discuss the National Budget for 2010. The less than satisfactory turnout, however, did not deter him from delivering his speech with his usual energy.
“The changes that have been implemented in the 2010 Budget are merely cosmetic. It does not tackle the root of the problem or issue,” said Anwar, who then listed the shortcomings of the Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s maiden Budget.
Under the existing laws, he pointed out, the middle class were the ones who suffered the most. He questioned the Barisan National-led Federal government for not enacting more progressive taxation laws.
“At one point in the 80s, we were on par with countries like Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. Today we find ourselves struggling with neighbours like Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia. This would not have happened in the past,” said Anwar, who asserted that these countries had a higher level of FDI (Foreign Direct Investment).
He said the problem is a lack of confidence in national management of the country’s affairs.
“It is not just about figures. It is a question of generating growth and at the same time restoring confidence in the people as well as foreign investors. The current Budget is lacking any meaningful effort to regain confidence lost in our institutions.”
Anwar, who is also Permatang Pauh MP, said that the loss of credibility in institutions such as the judiciary has caused many foreign investors to shy away from the country, investing instead in neighbouring countries such as Singapore.
“We have to restore public confidence in institutions such as the police, as well as the judiciary.
"Right now the only thing we see is that when the crime rate goes up, the Inspector-General of Police gets promoted to extend his term of office,” said a sarcastic Anwar delivering a quick jab at IGP Tan Sri Musa Hassan.
His views were shared by others who were present last night. They included Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim (Selangor Mentri Besar), Dr Dzulkifli Ahmad (Kuala Selangor MP), and Tony Pua (Petaling Jaya Utara MP).
They spoke about the setting up of a Malaysian Grants Commission, which would comprise of members from both sides of the political spectrum as well as economic experts.
“The grants would then be given to build infrastructure in the states that really need it, and money would not be wasted as there is an independent body looking after it,” said Khalid.
An alternative Budget will include an equalisation programme which ensures that the development and allocation in all the states are evenly accorded.
“There should be further economic development to reduce the disparities in the states. No gaps as this is similarly done in ‘Federalist States’ around the globe. When we have equality for all, only then is it truly 1 Malaysia, not mere rhetoric,” said Khalid.
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