Backbenchers Club Describes Budget 2025 As Prudent, Comprehensive

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 19 (Bernama) -- The Backbenchers Club (BBC) has described Budget 2025, tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, as prudent and comprehensive, highlighting four main factors.

Its chairman, Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah, said that these factors addressed the demands, needs, capabilities, and the country’s condition.

“We must understand the needs of the people, traders, and rural residents, while at the same time balancing the demands of the government, agencies, and international ratings, including the country’s geopolitical situation in addressing climate change.

“I see that these four factors are articulated and reflected in the Budget 2025, which focuses on the MADANI Economy and empowering the people. The complexity lies in how we can address both the demands and needs,” he said when contacted by Bernama.

The Paya Besar Member of Parliament also lauded the government’s decision to raise the minimum wage from RM1,500 per month to RM1,700 per month, effective from Feb 1, 2025.

“I had previously submitted a private motion to the Dewan Rakyat to review wage increases. The current situation requires a reassessment to narrow the gap between those in lower positions and their superiors.

“If we compare the compensation for lower-level employees to that of top executives, the disparity is 20 times greater, while for junior executives, it is 10 times greater,” he said.

Regarding the implementation of targeted subsidies, Mohd Shahar expressed his support for the initiative, stating that it would ensure those in need would benefit from it.

“I agree that targeted subsidies should be implemented, especially considering that this year alone, the government is paying nearly RM50 billion in debt service charges, which is expected to rise to RM54.7 billion next year. Without this measure, how can we sustain next year’s budget? It can create avenues for national development,” he said.

Budget 2025, worth RM421 billion, is the highest budget in the country’s history and the third budget presented under the MADANI Government.

-- BERNAMA