Opposition leader, PN MPs rap Anwar's ‘maha kaya’ narrative

PARLIAMENT | Opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin and several Perikatan Nasional MPs have taken a swipe at Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for targeting the “maha kaya” or “ultra rich” in his Budget 2024 speech last Friday.

Hamzah, in his 2024 Supply Bill debate today, raised PN’s concerns over Anwar’s supposed “narrative” that painted a negative image of those deemed as “ultra rich”.

“I am puzzled how Anwar on numerous occasions labelled the ‘maha kaya’ (ultra rich) as if they had committed offences.

“What is wrong with the government embracing and welcoming the participation of all parties, including successful businesspersons who contributed to the country's economic growth, particularly in efforts to attract foreign investments and create domestic jobs,” the Larut MP told the Dewan Rakyat.

Other PN MPs in their debates today questioned Anwar’s perceived biased views against the “ultra rich”.

Among others, Anwar said those within the upper tiers had excessively benefited from Malaysia’s system, particularly on blanket subsidies.

Hulu Terengganu MP Rosol Wahid

Rosol Wahid (PN-Hulu Terengganu) said Anwar’s “confusing” narrative will create a negative view towards those who are seen as being rich.

“The finance minister (Anwar) used the ‘maha kaya’ narrative as if being rich is a sin in Malaysia.

“But at the same time, the government is asking the ‘maha kaya’ to help the rakyat. This is confusing,” he said.

‘Like a Tamil movie’

Meanwhile, Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden (PN-Alor Setar) said the government must be clear about its direction on the nation’s economy.

“Before this, the prime minister wanted to end poverty, so that means people will generate income and be rich.

"What exactly are we trying to achieve? People can't be poor but also can't be rich,” he said.

Meanwhile, Awang Solahuddin Hashim (PN-Pendang) likened the budget speech to a “Tamil movie” with Anwar as the “hero”.

“This budget is like a Tamil movie. The ‘hero’ attacks the rich, while at the same time pretending to defend the poor,” he claimed.

Among others, he cited the proposed two percent service tax increase from six to eight percent as one which could burden the people.

“This additional two percent, we want to know the projected income.

“With pressure on the supply chain, ultimately the rakyat will have to pay,” he said.

Opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin

Earlier, Hamzah said the government should instead convince successful businesspersons or the “ultra rich” to distribute their share of the economic pie in a more equitable manner and not create uneasiness between workers and companies.

“Regardless, PN will not compromise with any parties who derive their income from the ‘dark economy’ including corruption, gambling, prostitution or other immoral activities detrimental to the country,” he said. - Mkini