KUALA LUMPUR – The government must get rid of parallel institutions, such as the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) and Special Affairs Department (Jasa), to ensure better budgeting, said former MP Tawfik Ismail.
“There are ministries already doing the same jobs. Getting rid of parallel institutions will create a better Budget for the country,” he told the Beyond Vision 2020: Growth with Equity in the New Decade webinar, co-organised by Sekhar Institute, The Vibes and Petra Group, yesterday.
He said such institutions were a trademark of former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Tawfik said the government should convince Malays to go for education and training instead of focusing on religion-based activities.
“This is a favourite topic among politicians in Malaysia nowadays. Malays should be taught that being in business is better than being an ustaz or a religious teacher in rural areas.
“The economic well-being of a group uplifts everything that they need to live for.
“Also, we need a government that keeps its promises. Let us promise, and deliver what we have promised.”
The social activist pointed to the last general election, where Pakatan Harapan made plenty of promises in its manifesto, but was unable to fulfil the major ones.
“I think principled politics is important. In the past, (political) parties stood on platforms and principles that were easy to understand. It was easier to attract leaders to move the country forward.” – The Vibes, November 13, 2020
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