GEORGE TOWN – The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has tabled a RM383.80 million budget for next year, with a deficit of RM24.89 million against a revenue estimate of RM358.91 million.
Mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang told an online council meeting today that MBPP will focus on essential and urgent projects, and those already being worked on.
The council will also review all project implementation, taking into account the ability to ensure sustainability.
“With limited new sources of revenue during these tough times, we are expecting a deficit budget. This is why we are focusing only on important projects, and those we have already started that need completion. Other projects will be put on hold,” said Yew.
“We are adopting a new approach, which is 4P – public, private, professional and people partnership.
“If there is a project that is very urgent or needed, instead of forking out from our coffers for implementation, we are seeking collaboration using the 4P concept.”
The MBPP budget will focus on addressing the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, stimulating the socio-economic needs of the community, and looking at a new approach to grow the city’s agenda.
“We expect 2022 to be a very challenging year due to the negative impact of Covid-19. Nevertheless, we will remain with the people and continue to develop our city by moving towards an intelligent, liveable and happy city through prudent and financial management-oriented means, and meet the needs of the people,” added Yew.
“With strategic planning, we will still be able to commit to funding several projects to provide public facilities and upgrade public infrastructure for the community’s socio-economic interests.”
The bulk of next year’s revenue will come from tax collection at RM249.4 million, non-tax collection (RM89 million) and non-revenue receipts (RM26.6 million). The estimated expenditure of RM383.80 million is for management (RM342.7 million), sustainable development (RM18.6 million) and capital property expenditure (RM22.5 million). – The Vibes, September 23, 2021
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