Kuala Lumpur: Several members of Parliament hope that all the initiatives provided under Budget 2021 will really help those affected by Covid-19.
Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid (BN-Padang Terap) said this was because there were incidents where the parties concerned went to the bank for help but left empty-handed.
“True, there are various facilities provided but in reality, banks do not simply accommodate businessmen who are seeking financing, unless they have a bigger ‘fund’ to show to the bank.
“This is one thing that requires a clearer explanation from the government,” he said during the debate session on the Supply Bill 2021 in Dewan Rakyat Monday.
Mahdzir said many parties that have been severely impacted by the pandemic especially those from the tourism, manufacturing, food and beverage sectors, were really in need of financial assistance during this difficult time. Mahdzir was of the view that the existing delivery system must be reviewed in line with the current pandemic situation in the country to ensure that all forms of allocation provided would reach the target groups.
Datuk Dr Nik Muhammad Zawawi Salleh (PAS-Pasir Putih), called on the government to give focus on groups like farmers, breeders, small and medium enterprise entrepreneurs by providing assistance and guidance through government agencies such as the Farmers’ Organisation Authority.
“In the current situation, I am confident that the agriculture sector can help boost the country’s economy if the government place a high commitment on the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) and similar agencies,” he said while stressing that appropriate guidance and assistance should be given to the younger generation to attract them to venture into the agriculture sector.
Meanwhile, Khalid Abd Samad (PH-Shah Alam) urged the government to give some relaxation for the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) Account 1 withdrawal.
“The permitted monthly RM500 withdrawal is only for 12 months and for certain groups. How much can the RM500 help to pay rents, car instalment, buy food and such?” he added.
The Dewan Rakyat sitting continues tomorrow.
