'Hope Fund' garners more than RM7m in less than 24 hours

The Hope Fund has managed to collect more than RM7 million in less than 24 hours after its launch, revealed Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng.

Describing this as a "truly remarkable feat", he said the government is committed to being transparent.

"Therefore, the amount collected will be updated daily on the Ministry of Finance's website and its social media platforms.

"For tax deduction purposes, Malaysians who donated to this fund are also advised to keep their receipt of the transaction as stated under Subsection 44 (6) of the Income Tax Act 1967," he told a press conference in Putrajaya this afternoon.

The minister also paid tribute to Shazarina Bakti, a law graduate and activist who initiated a fundraising page to crowdfund towards settling the country's debt, a week before the “Hope Fund” was launched. Her effort has managed to raise RM13,476.57 thus far.

"Malaysians have taken their patriotism to a greater height by willing to part with their allowances and spare cash to help rebuild this nation we all love.

“Malaysians, especially the likes of Shazarina, have continued to take their role in nation building seriously, and have not shown any signs of slowing down after the May 9 victory at the ballot boxes.

"It is precisely this spirit of hope and unity which will also fuel the Pakatan Harapan government in moving forward to fulfill all of its manifesto pledges for the people," he added.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced the setting up of the “Hope Fund” after his administration accused the previous government of raking up a national debt and liabilities of RM1 trillion. -Mkini