The people should not feel indebted to the government simply because it has given out goodies and aid, said former international trade and industries minister Rafidah Aziz.
This is because the money the government spends comes from the people.
"We should not feel sentimental and loyal to any parties or individuals, we should never feel indebted just because we received BR1M (1Malaysia People's Aid), was sent to perform the haj by the 1MDB Foundations, and given gifts in many forms (including) envelopes full of cash.
"All money spent by any government comes from the people, from taxes (such as) the income tax, GST... charges imposed by certain government departments, and others," Rafidah said in a Facebook posting today.
1MDB's haj program began in 2011 and is continuously used by the government to show that everything is well with the scandal-ridden firm.
In February this year, Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak urged pilgrims sponsored by 1MDB to continue backing BN to ensure that the programme continues.
The minister, known fondly as “the Iron Lady”, said the people should also not feel indebted to the point that they turn a blind eye to the wrongs plaguing the country, and to approve of what is wrong.
She said anything the government gives, including bonuses for civil servants, is only temporary and benefits only individuals.
"But the negative impact of 1MDB debts, corruption, misuse of power and national wealth will hurt the country for years to come.
"Remember our children and grandchildren who will have to bear this burden," she said.
The government is currently pushing to portray a positive image of 1MDB.
Last night, Najib said the parliamentary Public Accounts Committee's report on the firm showed that he did not steal 1MDB funds.
Meanwhile, the government has also declared that any unverified information regarding 1MDB is fake news.
Deputy Communications and Multimedia Minister Jailani Johari had warned that action would be taken against "fake news" about 1MDB.
Among the media he claimed were publishing "fake news" about 1MDB were the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Economist, Australian Broadcasting Corporation and MSNBC.
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) believes that at least US$4.5 billion was misappropriated from 1MDB and laundered through the US financial system to acquire various assets.
The assets were allegedly acquired for Malaysian government officials as well as their family members and associates.
The DOJ is seeking to seize around US$1.7 billion in assets allegedly acquired using the stolen money.
1MDB denies that any of its funds were misappropriated. - Mkini
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