Maszlee calls out elements of racism in Budget 2022

KUALA LUMPUR – The Dewan Rakyat was told today that the allocations in Budget 2022 are not racially equitable.

Maszlee Malik (Simpang Renggam-Independent) pointed out that RM11.4 billion was allocated for the Bumiputera community, whereas Chinese and Indians only received RM345 million in total.

With regard to education, Maszlee said policies based on race should be avoided.

“Education must be for all and is the responsibility of everyone, and there should not be any differentiation based on race,” Maszlee told the Dewan Rakyat while debating Budget 2022.

Similarly, for disabled students, Maszlee said holistic policies are required to support their education.

He was referring to the Higher Education Ministry’s Circular 1/2020 concerning allowances for disabled students in public higher learning institutions, where Maszlee noted that there is a requirement for students to undergo a Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)-recognised course.

“The reality is, many of these students undergo technical and vocational education and training (TVET) courses, which may not necessarily require SPM.

“But MQA requires SPM, thus some students would not receive their allowances,” Maszlee said.

The independent lawmaker urged the government to alter its policies and allow all disabled students undergoing TVET courses to receive their allowances.

Meanwhile, Maszlee expressed disappointment that Budget 2022 did not contain provisions for a long-term education recovery plan.

He said as the nation exits the Covid-19 pandemic, the government must have a clear direction and vision for education.

“Because of the past two years, we don’t want to have a long-term effect on students’ futures.

“Thus, I urge the government to map out a long-term budget and not just hand out goodies,” Maszlee said. – The Vibes, November 8, 2021