Equal funding call: Don't let MPs resort to shaving heads - Syed Saddiq

PARLIAMENT | Two party presidents in Parliament today urged the government to provide equal funding for all lawmakers to benefit their constituents.

Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman (Pakatan Harapan-Muar) in a supplementary question today said the new government is duty-bound to provide equal funding that would be used to benefit the people, contrary to the practices of its predecessors.

“This new Madani government is a just government. I recall when I sat on the opposition bench, I was among the last to receive funding from the previous government, until I had to shave my head (photo below), hold sales, and offer free tuition, just to ensure the people of Muar were not left behind in terms of aid.

“But for us (the government) to turn back and say ‘they used to do it so we can too’ is wrong,” said the Muda president.

He argued that providing equal funding to all MPs would be a way forward to ensure no one in need is left behind.

“We need to bring a new form of politics for Malaysia,” he stressed.

In response, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Special Functions, Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) Armizan Ali said the government is open to considering all applications for funds made through the parliamentary whips of the parties.

“So any MPs who have yet to receive any funds, I would recommend applying, to negotiate via their respective whip.

“Most important is our openness, coupled with strong financial standings; the government will not hesitate to consider allocations for all,” he said.

Party whips in the Dewan Rakyat are responsible to ensure party discipline. Current whips include Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (BN), Takiyuddin Hassan (Perikatan Nasional), and Fadillah Yusof (GPS).

Earlier, Parti Bangsa Malaysia president Julau MP Larry Sng raised the issue of equal funding for MPs.

He also asked the government whether it had plans to increase the number of special grants under the Minor Rural Project and People Friendly Project for Sabah and Sarawak MPs.

Armizam said increased funding will depend on the nation’s current finances, with an initial focus on improving the country's fiscal standing. - Mkini