KUALA LUMPUR – The Finance Ministry is considering a consultation process between Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) with all parliamentarians, allowing lawmakers to finally put to rest any concerns or questions they may have.
During question time, Deputy Finance Minister Yameni Hafez Musa (Sipitang-Bersatu) had to counter accusations of secrecy with regards to DNB’s role in the 5G roll-out at the Dewan Rakyat today.
Among the accusations, included those from Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim who attempted to draw parallels between 1MDB and DNB due to the lack of transparency.
“If the deputy minister says the expected expenditure is RM12.5 billion, but there may be extra costs needed later, those are answers for special committee meetings.
“In Parliament, we want a definitive answer. I don’t believe the RM12.5 billion expenditure claims, as this is merely placing a low value to not shock the people.
“Why is the Finance Ministry scared to reveal the information?” Anwar asked.
As Hafez attempted to explain that parallels should not be drawn between 1MDB and DNB due to the fact the latter appointed Ernst & Young via open tender to frame the company’s future tender processes.
Fahmi Fadzil (Lembah Pantai-PH) reminded the lower house that professional financial firm Goldman Sachs was involved in 1MDB as well.
“Goldman was appointed directly to fundraise bonds. For DNB, we did it via open tender, there’s a big difference.
“Maybe we will do a consultation with all MPs for DNB to give a better explanation to answer any questions, and dispel any worries,” Hafez told the Dewan Rakyat today.
He further explained that although the initial costs for the 5G roll-out were projected at RM11 billion, Hafez said a further RM1.5 billion was needed, thus bringing the projected expenditure to RM12.5 billion.
Additionally, the deputy minister assured that Bumiputera vendors are a priority for the ministry and would benefit from the roll-out.
“DNB together with Ericsson has framed a usage plan for the 5G network that uses readily available network infrastructure and maximise contract work from local vendors particularly Bumiputeras.
“From the RM12.5 billion projected expenditure, 61% is expected to benefit Bumiputera, 24% to benefit other Malaysians, while the remaining 15% would benefit foreign interests,” Hafez added. – The Vibes, December 15, 2021
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