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The comprehensive working relationship  co-operation between Malaysia and United States reached a record level in the inaugural official visit of Prime Minister Dato’ Srì Mohd. Najib Tun Razak to the White House.

JOINT STATEMENT FOR ENHANCING THE COMPREHENSIVE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND MALAYSIA

 

13th September 2017

 

The President of the United States of America, Donald J. Trump, hosted the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Najib Razak, at the White House to strengthen the Comprehensive Partnership between the two countries as they mark the 60th anniversary of bilateral relations.

 

The United States and Malaysia share a long history of close cooperation built on economic ties and mutual security interests. The two leaders pledged to continue building upon that relationship through enhanced diplomatic, economic, security, and people-to-people ties.

 

President Trump and Prime Minister Najib recognized the grave threat posed by North Korea to security and stability across the Asia-Pacific region. The two leaders expressed their concern over North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile tests, which are a flagrant violation of the multiple United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and will only further escalate tensions in the region.

Both sides reaffirmed their support for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and the need for the international community to strictly implement UNSC resolutions. President Trump welcomed Prime Minister Najib’s commitment to go beyond the UNSC resolutions, including through a review ofits diplomatic relations and business links with North Korea.

 

The two leaders pledged to nurture the economic ties between the United States and Malaysia to create jobs and opportunities for people in both countries, reflecting a longstanding and substantial trade relationship. The two countries recognized the importance of regular discussions under the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement to strengthen the trade relationship by removing barriers in key sectors. Both sides announced their intent to pursue trade and investment opportunities in the transportation and energy sectors and to address the bilateral trade imbalance.

The two leaders welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Malaysia Airlines Berhad and The Boeing Company for eight new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, purchase rights for eight additional 737 MAX airplanes, and maintenance for the national carrier’s fleet, with a potential total value of $4 billion (USD). President Trump welcomed the probability of additional purchases of Boeing aircraft in the future. Both leaders welcomed the involvement of the United States private sector in the development of the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail project. The two countries also committed to review regulatory frameworks with the aim of facilitating investment in their respective economies.

 

Prime Minister Najib and President Trump discussed matters relating to the South China Sea and emphasized the importance of ensuring, maintaining, and safeguarding peace and stability, maritime security, freedom of navigation and over-flight, and other lawful uses of the seas. The two leaders underscored the importance of upholding and adhering to the rules-based maritime order.

They called upon all disputing parties to implement their international legal obligations in good faith, and to avoid the threat or use of force, intimidation, or coercion. They further called on all disputing parties to exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities and refrain from action that erodes trust and confidence, and escalates tension, including the militarization of outposts. The two leaders reaffirmed that all maritime claims must be based on and resolved in accordance with international law as reflected in the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

 

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of the strategic partnership between the United States and the Association of Southeast Asian States (ASEAN) and to the continued implementation of the principles decided upon by the leaders of the United States and ASEAN in the 2016 Sunnylands Declaration. They affirmed their support for common efforts to develop a rules-based ASEAN Community, and to maintaining ASEAN centrality in the evolving regional architecture. The two leaders noted the 50th anniversary of ASEAN’s founding and the 40th anniversary of relations between the United States and ASEAN and welcomed commemorative activities.

 

The two leaders pledged to strengthen cooperation to counter the growing threat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Southeast Asia. Both leaders re-affirmed the importance of promoting community resilience and mutual respect across religious and ethnic boundaries. As a partner in the fight against ISIS and a member of the Global Coalition led by the United States, the two leaders noted Malaysia’s pledge of $1 million (USD) for humanitarian assistance in areas liberated from ISIS. The United States recognized Malaysia’s continued progress toward meeting program requirements for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, including obligations under the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 6 (HSPD-6) and Preventing and Combatting Serious Crime (PCSC) information sharing arrangements.

 

Prime Minister Najib announced Malaysia’s commitment to implement its data sharing agreements with the United States and to phased enhancements of passenger screening at all points of entry, and the United States committed to actively work with Malaysia towards this end. The United States and Malaysia acknowledged that cyber and other crimes often help finance terrorist networks. The countries committed to utilize available multilateral instruments, including the Budapest Convention in order to strengthen domestic legislation and foster international cooperation in combating cybercrime.

 

The United States and Malaysia pledged to strengthen bilateral defense ties. The two leaders underscored the importance of expanding cooperation in priority areas, including maritime security, counterterrorism, and information sharing between our defense and security forces. They committed to pursue additional opportunities for joint exercises and training.

 

The leaders also underscored the importance of enhancing maritime domain awareness through the development of maritime capabilities such as surveillance, communications, and information-sharing, and expressed their intent to continue discussions on funding of assets through the most effective mechanisms for developing these capabilities in order to advance regional security. President Trump welcomed Malaysia’s intent to make an additional $60 million (USD) in defense procurements from the United States.

 

They discussed the need to end the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. Both leaders called for an end to the violence targeting civilian populations, and discussed the need for a strong international community response for the hundreds of thousands of individuals who have been victimized and displaced by violence, including those who have arrived in Bangladesh. Both sides urged the Myanmar government to end the violence against innocents and ensure that humanitarian relief reaches victims immediately.

 

President Trump and Prime Minister Najib held a constructive discussion about the importance of good governance and the free flow of information to prosperity and a positive business environment. They also discussed the importance of protecting human rights, including freedom of expression and freedom of religion. The United States welcomed Malaysia’s commitment to increase prosecutions of human traffickers, as well as expedited assessment with the aim of increasing substantially the number of trafficking victims granted freedom of movement.

 

The two leaders welcomed continued strong people-to-people ties, especially Fulbright academic exchanges. They recognized the growing number of Malaysian undergraduate and graduate students studying in the United States, now numbering nearly eight thousand. They expressed anticipation for the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding sustaining the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant program, one of the largest in the world, through 2020.

 

The two leaders discussed their commitment to further strengthening the Comprehensive Partnership to promote peace, stability, prosperity, and international consensus in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world.

 

PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE,

MALAYSIA

***************

It was Prime Minister Najib’s first official visit and meeting with an American President in the Oval Office and the meeting, attended also by Malaysian Foreign Minister Dato’ Sri Anifah Aman and United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson lasted over an hour.

Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak in the traditional pose of leaders calling on United States President in the Oval Office of the White House

It is a very significant achievement for Malaysia as currently the 17th most important trading nation and aiming to be the 25th most wealthiest economy by 2025.

Of course, Malaysia’s role in regional and international geo political and diplomacy is gaining more prominence and that is in tandem of Malaysia’s open trade policies.

New Straits Times story:

United States President Donald Trump said it was “a great honour” to have Datuk Seri Najib Razak in the US and White House. (Bernama photo)

WASHINGTON DC: United States President Donald Trump said it was “a great honour” to have Datuk Seri Najib Razak in the US and White House.

In his remarks before the bilateral meeting yesterday at the White House’s Cabinet room, Trump personally told Najib that he was honoured to have the prime minister and the Malaysian delegate over in a historic meeting marking the two countries’ 60 years of bilateral ties.

“I just want to say it is an honour to have you here..It is an honour to have your delegation with us,” he said.

Trump, who again mentioned that it was “a great honour” to have Najib in the White House at the end of his remarks, thanked Malaysia for its investments in the US.

“Malaysia is a massive investor in terms of stocks and bonds and exchange…they (Malaysian investors) have to be very happy as we are hitting new highs almost on a weekly basis.

“And we are very proud of what has happened in our stock market since I became president.”

The meeting between the two leaders and delegates from both countries marked a huge milestone in bilateral ties.

Najib, who is on a three-day working visit here on Trump’s invitation, is only the second Asean leader to be personally invited by Trump to the White House.

It came as a clear recognition by the US, coming in the first year of Trump’s presidency.

Trump also praised Najib for Malaysia’s firm stance against terrorism.

“The prime minister has a major role in not allowing ISIS or Daesh as you call it and others to exist.

“He has been very very strong on terrorism in Malaysia and a great supporter on that standpoint..and that is very important to the United States.”

Trump also praised Najib’s stand on North Korea, which he said was also in tandem with the US.

“He does not do business with North Korea any longer, and we find that to be very important.”

Najib arrived at the White House here at 11.45am on Tuesday (11.45pm Malaysian time) and was greeted by Trump at the West Wing awning.

The prime minister held a four-eyed meeting at the Oval Office before the delegation meeting between the two countries.

Apart from President Trump, the US was represented by among others, Vice-President Michael Pence, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Defence Secretary James Mattis, National Security Advisor Lieutenant-General H.R. McMaster, National Economic Council director Gary Cohn, and US ambassador to Malaysia Kamala Lakhdhir.

Accompanying Najib at the meeting were Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman, International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Ali Hamsa, National Security Council Director-General Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin, Foreign Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Seri Ramlan Ibrahim, and Malaysia’s ambassador to the US, Tan Sri Zulhasnan Rafique.

The two leaders displayed warmth as they greeted each other on arrival.

Trump broke convention when he accompanied Najib to the door when leaving the White House.

Officials said Trump, who normally saw off guests at the main floor, remarked that Najib was “a friend”.

*******************

The personal and cordial relationship between the two leaders now have been translated into improved official comprehensive relationship between Malaysia and United States.

President Trump’s economic policies have somewhat positively contributed to Malaysian investments and funds having portions of they portfolio is various US based capital and debt markets.

Employee Provident Fund Q1 announcement:

EPF Records RM11.79 Billion Income for Q1 2017

Significant improvement from market recovery

KUALA LUMPUR, 30 May 2017: The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) today reported a quarterly investment income of RM11.79  billion for the first quarter ending 31 March 2017 (Q1 2017), a year-on-year increase of 73.9 per cent from RM6.78 billion in Q1 2016.

Commenting on EPF’s Q1 2017 Investment performance, Chief Executive Officer Datuk Shahril Ridza Ridzuan said, “Both the domestic and global markets improved significantly compared with the first quarter last year. The FBM KLCI grew by six (6) per cent, driven by the growth in the banking sector, while global indices improved by as much as 12 per cent, a striking difference from the market environment last year. The positive market condition was conducive for profit taking activities leading to higher gross investment income in Q1 2017 and also lower net impairment.”

In accordance with the Malaysian Financial Reporting Standards (MFRS 139), the EPF recorded lower net impairments from RM1.64 billion to RM775.92 million this year, a decrease of RM865.08 million, following the improvement in all major markets.

The value of EPF investment assets reached RM747.17 billion, a 2.20 per cent or RM16.06 billion increase from 31 December 2016. Out of the total investment asset, RM352.73 billion, or 47.2 per cent, were in Shariah-compliant investment while the balance were invested in non-Shariah assets.

“While we have had an encouraging first quarter, we remain cautious moving forward as recovery in commodity prices remains weak with continued currency volatility,” said Datuk Shahril.

In Q1 2017, Equities, which made up 41.76 per cent of the EPF’s total investment assets, contributed RM7.10 billion, representing 60.2 per cent of total investment income for the quarter. This was 178.6 per cent higher from the RM2.55 billion recorded in the corresponding quarter in 2016. The recovery in banking sectors contributed to about 30 per cent of the trading and dividend income for the portfolio during the quarter.

“In addition to improvement in the domestic equity market, the global market also continued to provide opportunities for the EPF to realise its gains despite volatilities arising from the elections in eurozone countries, President Trump’s healthcare bill, the US interest rate hike and negotiations surrounding Brexit. These market moving factors were alleviated by the positive economic numbers, including the revised growth forecast for major economies.”

The EPF’s overseas investment accounted for 29 per cent of its total investment asset and contributed 37 per cent to the total investment income recorded in Q1 2017.

As at March 2017, a total of 49.08 per cent of EPF’s investment assets were in fixed income instruments, which continue to provide consistent and stable income. The first quarter saw fixed income investments recorded an income of RM4.07 billion, equivalent to 34.6 per cent of the quarterly investment income.

Income from Malaysian Government Securities (MGS) & Equivalent in Q1 2017 increased 3.67 per cent, or RM68.56 million, to RM1.94 billion from RM1.87 billion in Q1 2016. Loans and Bonds, meanwhile, generated an investment income of RM2.14 billion, compared with RM1.87 billion in Q1 2016.

Investments in Money Market Instruments and Real Estates & Infrastructure each represented 5.04 per cent and 4.11 per cent of the total investment assets, and contributed investment income of RM372.79 million and RM246.27 million respectively in Q1 2017.

Following the commencement of Simpanan Shariah on 1 January 2017, a total of RM952.10 million out of the total gross investment income of RM11.79 billion was generated for Simpanan Shariah while RM10.84 billion for Simpanan Konvensional. Simpanan Shariah derives its income solely from its portion of the Shariah assets while the income for Simpanan Konvensional is generated by its share of Shariah and also non-Shariah assets.

Datuk Shahril said the performance of both Simpanan Shariah and Simpanan Konvensional would depend on market performance, thus making short-term differences between the two inevitable. In the long run, the performance of the two should be similar following similar strategies implemented for both accounts.

He added that the EPF remains focused on delivering real dividend target of at least two (2) per cent above inflation over a three-year rolling period for both Simpanan Shariah and Simpanan Konvensional.
About the Employees Provident Fund (EPF)

The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) is Malaysia’s premier retirement savings fund, providing basic financial security for retirement. The EPF is committed to preserving and growing the savings of its members in accordance with best practices in investment and corporate governance.  It will always be guided by prudence in its investment decisions.

As a customer-focused organisation, the EPF delivers efficient and reliable services for the convenience of its members and registered employers.

The EPF continues to play a catalytic role in the nation’s economic growth, consistent with its position as a leading savings institution in Malaysia.

*******************

This is landmark visit indeed and a very apt to renew and take the friendship and bi-lateral relationship fostered sixty years ago when then Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman represented Malaysia as the first Ambassador to the United States.

*Updated 1400hrs

Remarks by Foreign Minister Dato’ Srì Anifah Aman on the success of Prime Minister Najib’s visit and meeting with President Donald Trump:

Saudara2 sekalian,
No words can describe how proud the privileged few of us who were with YAB PM during the working visit to the President of the USA.

I accompanied him to visits with Kings, Presidents, Prime Ministers but this could be the peak.
If only rakyat Malaysia can see how he handled the visit and the quality of the exchanges that earned the respect of the US President and his delegations,make you proud as a Malaysian.

All the top 3 of the US Govt and senior Cabinet members were there. Seldom happened or none so far. President Trump was not what you read in the paper, he was truly the President of the most powerful nation and our PM has earned his respect and that of his colleagues.

The President seeked our PM’s views on the regional and international issues and at times instructed his senior cabinet members to do as what the Malaysian had done. I thanked PM for the honour and privilege to be there with him on that historical day. You can see the body language of the President Cabinet and their attentiveness that this was a meeting of substance.

Truly I can’t find enough words to describe how proud I was. And you all should too because our Prime Minister is special!



Connecting the Disconnected

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The Ministry of Youth and Sports, Barisan Nasional and UMNO Youth should multiply their efforts in connecting the youths with the full picture and get them onboard on the transformation programs that already been rolled out since 2010.

The Mole carried the story about the recent Merdeka Centre survey of 604 respondents amongst youths how disconnected they are.

Youths dissatisfied with government, distrust opposition

ibrahim-youth-1
Zaidi Azmi
Written by Zaidi Azmi

KUALA LUMPUR – September 20, 2017: A recent survey by the Merdeka Centre concluded that although a majority of Malaysian youths were highly dissatisfied with the government, they were also sceptical of the opposition’s ability to present a viable alternative.

According to the survey, 53 per cent of 604 respondents said they were too busy to register as voters, despite believing that the country was heading in the wrong direction.

It also pointed out that despite being the largest voting bloc, over 2.5 million of youths have yet to register as voters.

“If this apathy among youth voters continues, it is highly likely that turnout for the next general elections will be lower than the last one, which was 85 per cent,” said Merdeka Centre programme director Ibrahim Suffian at a forum last night.

Ibrahim added that the repercussions of having a low voter turnout among youths was that they may not regard the elected government as their representative.

On why youths were sceptical of the opposition, panellist and lawyer-cum-activist Syahredzan Johan said it was due to opposition leaders’ alleged penchant for talking politics non-stop.

“They should talk about other things as well. As the study suggests, the youths’ disappointment with the government does not translate into a vote for the opposition,” reminded Syahredzan.

He pointed out that the opposition’s silence over the recent ban imposed on online video game bazaar Steam by the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission showed how disconnected they are with youths.

“They should have used the issue to tell the gamers how politics actually played a part in the ban of Steam. But they didn’t,” said Syahredzan.

The study also discovered that political issues such as the 1Malaysia Development Berhad controversy and the implementation of hudud were the least of the youths’ concern.

Instead, the majority — Malays (77 per cent), Chinese (71 per cent) and Indians (68 per cent) — said they were constantly worried with their personal finances.

The survey was conducted in 165 constituencies in 12 states in the peninsula from August 3 to 8.

*****************

The Opposition is evidently not serving the aspiration of the youths.

A month ago, at a Malaysian student summit organised by Malaysian students studying abroad on their annual summer holiday, it is abundantly clear the Opposition Youth leadership is disconnected with the students who were willing to hear them out.

Along with the progress that have been achieved the past eight years like increase of 50% of gross national income and the rise of disposable income amongst the youth and young Malaysians, BN Youth should have a lot to tell.

There are aplenty of success stories that would be compounded on the ‘Feel Good’ factor amongst the younger Malaysian populous, like more opportunities to have access to affordable homes particularly to the middle income group and growing urban dwellers.

This is on top of how Malaysians came together for the sound triumphant calls of the recently concluded XXIX Kuala Lumpur Sea Games and 60th Merdeka celebrations.

However, tone of he Minister in-charge has been seen as not quite positively compelling.

It is quit alarming if he is feeling down and subliminally sending the vibes instead of rising above the dark clouds at his corner and quickly drum up the charge.

There are a lot of opportunites to be capitalised on the persons currently in the zone of ‘disconnected service’.


Emancipation

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There is a landmark progress on the attitude towards Saudi women as the Rulers of the Al-Saud Kingdom of the Arabian sub-continent would be lifting the ban to allow the other half of Saudis to drive.

The Independent story:

Saudi Arabia to allow women to drive

Women in Saudi Arabia were only allowed to vote in 2015; now they are allowed to drive

Women in Saudi Arabia will be allowed to drive, the government announced on Tuesday – ending their reign as the only nation in the world where women were forbidden from getting behind the wheel of a car.

The news was announced on state television and in a simultaneous media event in Washington, highlighting the damage that the policy has done to the kingdom’s international reputation and its hopes for a public relations benefit from the reform.

While there is no formal law banning women from driving, the government refuses to issue them permits. That will now change under the royal decree, which ordered the formation of a ministerial body to give advice within 30 days and then implement the order by June 2018.

The milestone was greeted with jubilation on social media, with the hashtag “Saudi women can drive” being used in a flood of tweets.

Amena Bakr, a Saudi energy analyst, said it was a “massive victory for women in the kingdom.”

“Really about time,” she added.

In Washington, the state department celebrated the news, describing it as “a great step in the right direction”.

Campaigners have for many years argued that women should be allowed to drive, saying that it makes virtual prisoners out of women who do not have a male family member or chauffeur to drive them around.

In June 2011, about 40 women got behind the wheel and drove in several cities in a protest sparked when Manal Sharif, one of the founders of the movement, was arrested and detained for 24 hours after posting a video of herself driving.

Another was arrested and sentenced to 10 lashes – a sentence later overturned by the king – and the rest were told to sign statements guaranteeing they would not drive again.

In October 2013, shortly after a prominent cleric claimed that medical studies showed driving damaged a woman’s ovaries, 60 women took part in a protest, driving in spite of warnings from the authorities.

In response, 150 clerics staged a demonstration outside the royal palace. The ministry warned against marches or gatherings under the pretext of the driving campaign. It said those “disturbing public peace” will be dealt with firmly.

Last year Human Rights Watch produced a report highlighting the range of restrictions that Saudi women face.

Adult women must obtain permission from a male guardian to travel, marry, or exit prison.  They may be required to provide guardian consent in order to work or access healthcare.  Women regularly face difficulty conducting a range of transactions without a male relative, from renting an apartment to filing legal claims.

“We all have to live in the borders of the boxes our dads or husbands draw for us,” said Zahra, a 25-year-old Saudi woman.

Progress has, however, been made. 

In 2013, then-King Abdullah appointed 30 women to the Shura Council, his highest advisory body, and two years later women were allowed to both vote in and run for office in municipal council elections, for the first time in the country’s history.

In May his successor, King Salman, ordered that government agencies publish lists of services that women can access, without a male guardian present, and ordered that employers provide women with transport.

And according to the Saudi Ministry of Education, women in Saudi Arabia attend college at higher rates than men.

Yet it is still difficult for women to succeed, in part because of barriers placed by the Saudi system – something Tuesday’s ruling hopes to address.

The movement for women to drive has gained prominence with the rise in power of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a 32-year-old son of the king. who has laid out a far-reaching plan to reform the kingdom’s economy and society.

Furthermore, Saudi Arabia, hit by the fall of oil prices, is aware of the economic contribution that women could make.

Ensaf Haidar, wife of Saudi dissident Raif Badawi, tweeted a victory sign in response to the announcement.

Loujain Hathloul, a Saudi women’s rights activist who has been at forefront of movement, and spent 73 days in detention for driving in 2014, simply responded: “Praise God”

*****************

It is most likely that the rules to obtain the permit to drive between sexes would be different but this is definitely a progress in a kingdom known to prohibit women based on strict and very conservative interpretation of the Arab customs and tradition.

Previously, women have been allowed to obtain flying license.

The Arab News story:

SAUDI ARABIA

Female Saudi pilot flies high

A Saudi woman has become the first licensed female pilot in the Kingdom.



Thirty-five-year-old Hanadi Al-Hindi, who had battled kidney problems, acquired licensing from the Jeddah-based General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) to fly planes in Saudi Arabia.



Al-Hindi, who wears a headscarf, has begun flying small and wide-bodied luxury planes belonging to a fleet from the Kingdom Holding Company (KHC).



Khaled Al-Khaibary, a GACA spokesman, neither confirmed nor denied awarding the license to Al-Hindi, saying he would verify the information on Monday.



Al-Hindi, however, confirmed receipt of the license via telephone from the United States.


 “Saudi women are capable of taking on any job previously held exclusively by men in Saudi Arabia,” she said.

Al-Hindi refused to divulge anymore information owing to contractual obligations and sensitivity surrounding the topic.

“I have, however, taken on a private initiative to counsel Saudi students in the US who are willing to pursue a career in aviation,” said Al-Hindi, who acquired a “Commercial Pilot’s License” (CPL) and an “Instrument Rating” (IR) from the Amman-based Mideast Aviation Academy in 2002. “Exciting opportunities await candidates in this field.”

Al-Hindi became the Kingdom’s first woman pilot after being hired by Kingdom Holding Company Chairman Prince Alwaleed bin Talal. She became something of a celebrity after gaining her commercial pilot’s license way back in 2006.

Al-Hindi said that she was proud of herself and her family for supporting her in choosing this career.

Born and raised in Makkah, Al-Hindi faced opposition from her relatives after she decided to become a pilot.

Al-Hindi described her first solo flight in 2004 as the beginning of her dream career. “Two days after my solo flight, I discovered that my name was being mentioned all over the world and that I had become a celebrity,” she said in an earlier interview with Arab News.




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Emirates Women story about the progress of more lateral towards Saudi women:

Women’s Rights Are Changing In Saudi

In Saudi Arabia women aren’t allowed to drive a car (clerics claim it “undermines social values”); interact with men; try clothes while shopping or compete freely in sports, however this could all change in the near future.

As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 – the kingdom’s post-oil economy plans – the country, and its monarchy are said to be changing restrictions on social policies.

Some of the changes have already come into affect, last December  Saudi women were given the right to vote, and in April this year the strict religious police (the mutaween) – formally known as the Committee For The Promotion Of Virtue And The Prevention Of Vice – were stripped of their power to stop, question, pursue or arrest people.

Saudi's Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

Saudi’s Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman – the third in line to the throne – has also hinted that the government may also be lifting the women’s driving ban, granting ladies permission to take charge behind the wheel.

Read: Saudi Prince Champions Women’s Rights

Read: Celebrity Shams Bandar Renounces Her Saudi Nationality

Read: Saudi Victoria’s Secret Model Talks Feminism

The hope is to make the region a more modern, tourist-friendly destination beyond oil dependance; with an aim is to attract 1.5 million tourists by 2020, and to boost the kingdom’s hospitality industry by more than half.

According to the Arabian Gulf States Institute in Washington, the Vision 2030 plan includes: “privatisation of a portion of the Saudi national oil company Aramco; the expansion of the resources and role of the Saudi Public Investment Fund; and the development of the country’s ports, cultural resources, and tourist sites to take advantage of its strategic position at the centre of the Arab and Islamic world.”

YOU’LL LIKE THIS:

The move comes after the country posted a US$98billion budget deficit last year – it is also expected to post a deficit of 14 per cent of gross domestic product this year, according to the IMF.

If the ‘vision’, and the change in the monarchy’s reform, allows women to have equal rights then we are certainly interested to hear more…

****************

It is very refreshing to watch the slow liberalisation of social policies.


In descend proposal

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Federal Government is unclear on Maju Holding’s proposal to take over PLUS highway system

The Mole story based on Bernama report:

Govt concerned over Maju Holdings’ bid for PLUS

Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani

Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani

Syndicated News
Written by Syndicated News

PUTRAJAYA — Sept 28, 2017: The government is concerned over Maju Holdings’ proposal to buy PLUS because it doesn’t want the nation’s strategic assets to eventually fall into foreign hands if they were sold.

When commenting on this today, Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani spoke of similar proposals that were rejected.

“We do not know the source of the fund. If it is an offshore borrowing we are worried that national assets would fall into foreign hands if a loan could not be paid,” he said on the sidelines of Fiesta Labur PNB 2017 here.

Maju Holdings recently disclosed that it had made a bid of more than RM36 billion to take over PLUS Malaysia Berhad. PLUS is controlled by the UEM Group and the Employees’ Provident Fund.

The Khazanah Nasional-owned UEM has a 51 per cent stake of the highway concessionaire while EPF owns the rest.

Bernama recently reported that if EPF were to sell its stake, some 14.5 million contributors may lose out on a steady stream of dividend.

However, they could heave a sigh of relief as EPF Chief Executive Officer Datuk Shahril Ridza Ridzuan had assured them that EPF did not intend to sell its stake.

At the event, Johari said Bank Negara´s findings on the low financial literacy among Malaysians was a cause for concern for the government.

This is because lack of financial understanding and management knowledge can bring about some disadvantages, including uncontrollable debt burden commitment and living beyond one’s means.

“Through Fiesta Labur, the government hopes Malaysians will be more sensitive to good financial planning and management practices,” said Johari.

Held for the second time, the PNB´s three-day Fiesta Labur offers financial planning services for free, as well as financial activities.

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Also in NST story:

Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said if the fund was sourced from overseas, the government must be informed on the type of financial model to prevent the national asset from falling into foreign entities. (Pic by MOHAMAD SHAHRIL BADRI SAALI)

PUTRAJAYA: The government has asked Maju Holdings Sdn Bhd to disclose its source and mode of financing for its RM36 billion offer to buy Plus Malaysia Bhd, the country’s largest highway concessionaire.

Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said if the fund was sourced from overseas, the government must be informed on the type of financial model. This is to prevent the national asset from falling into foreign entities.

“We want to know the source of funding… whether it is based on loan or not,” Johari told reporters after launching Fiesta Labur PNB 2017 here yesterday.

“If there is any proposal – first things first, we want to know where the funding comes from. If the fund is loan based and they are unable to repay, it would affect the country’s assets, which could potentially fall into foreign investors,” he added.

Johari stressed that the government had refinanced the Plus highway development cost via the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and UEM Group Bhd.

UEM, which is fully-owned by Khazanah Nasional Bhd, owns a 51 per cent Plus stake, while the remaining 49 per cent belongs to the EPF.

“We want to understand the financial model of the proposal. For example, where they get the money from? And how they can assure that the money can be paid back,” Johari reiterated.

He clarified that he had yet to receive the proposal from Maju Holdings.

He added that there was a few proposals to take over Plus by numerous parties previously.

In March 2014, Tan Sri Halim Saad had put in an unsolicited bid to take over Plus, through his private investment vehicle Idaman Saga Sdn Bhd, but the offer was rejected by the government.

A Maju Holdings spokesman recently confirmed that it had submitted a formal bid to UEM and the EPF to buy 100 per cent of Plus and its subsidiaries.

The company was said to have sent a letter of intent and roped in independent investment banking advisory firm Evercore Group LLC to help with the acquisition.

Plus has five concessions including Projek Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan Bhd which has under its umbrella the North-South Expressway, New Klang Valley Expressway, Federal Highway Route 2 and Seremban-Port Dickson Highway.

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In a story by The Mole a week ago, Maju Holdings Executive Chairman Tan Sri Abu Sahid Mohamed said they have made a proposal via New York based investment bank Evercore to Khazanah National Bhd. for the Plus highway system take over.

However Khazanah did not respond.

Maju Holdings boss perplexed PLUS takeover proposal rebuffed

perwaja 05
Zaidi Azmi
Written by Zaidi Azmi

KUALA LUMPUR – September 21, 2017: The boss of Maju Holdings, Tan Sri Abu Sahid Mohamed, is perplexed that his company’s proposal to take over  PLUS Expressway Berhad, which manages some of the country’s major highways, has been rebuffed.

This also leaves the company’s group executive chairman to describe Khazanah Nasional and the Employees’ Provident Fund, both major shareholders of PLUS, as being very evasive.

But based on what happened a few years ago, Abu Sahid should have no compelling reason to be shocked and in disbelief.

In 2014, a bid by a group linked to former Renong Berhad executive chairman Tan Sri Halim Saad, the architect behind the building of the North-South Highway and the man who also oversaw PLUS for several year, was also rejected apparently for giving incorrect information.

The bid also guaranteed no increase in toll rates plus a reduction in the then rates.

A person familiar with banking and finance and whose former company provided consultancy services on mergers and acquisitions who read the bid but wished to remain anonymous described it as brilliant and one that should be supported, not rejected.

News of Maju Holding’s proposal to acquire PLUS and its subsidiaries by way of purchasing all shares from the main shareholders was first reported two months ago.

PLUS chairman Tan Sri Mohd. Sheriff Kassim confirmed that he had received a copy of Abu Sahid’s offer on September 11, with EPF making clear it had no intention of selling its shares.

“We haven’t discussed anything and they’re already saying no. Why are they so reluctant to meet me?” asked Abu Sahid when met by The Mole yesterday evening.

Insisting that his proposal was credible, Abu Sahid said it was drafted by renown international boutique investment bank, Evercore Partners.

He is also baffled by negative public feedback over the proposal, despite him guaranteeing a 20-year-long no toll hike for all highways under PLUS.

“Malaysians cry foul whenever toll rates are increased but when I told them I can guarantee a static toll rate for 20 years some also protest.

“It can be done. Evercore had done the maths and they told me that it is still profitable to operate the highways even if I do not raise the rates for 20 years,” stated Abu Sahid.

One concern echoed by the detractors is that it would deprive the 14.5 million EPF contributors a steady stream of dividend income.

Concurring that the contention may be valid, Abu Sahid however argued that the amount of annual dividend that EPF contributors has been getting from its RM400 million earnings from PLUS is only RM28 per contributor.

Abu Sahid said the proposal offers EPF and Khazanah a RM2 billion payment in cash each and that the amount paid to EPF will enable its contributors to enjoy a one-off RM142 dividend.

Maju Holding currently operates the Maju Expressway and is in the midst of constructing the Lebuhraya Putrajaya – Kuala Lumpur International Airport extension project.

PLUS has five concessionaires:

1. Projek Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan Sdn. Bhd. which operates the North-South Highway, New Klang Valley Expressway, Federal Highway Route 2 and Seremban-Port Dickson Highway.

2. Expressway Lingkaran Tengah Sdn. Bhd. which operates the North-South Highway Central Lin).

3. Linkedua (M) Berhad which operates the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link.

4. Konsortium Lebuhraya Butterworth-Kulim Sdn. Bhd., which operates the Butterworth-Kulim Expressway.

5.  Projek Lebuhraya Usahasama Berhad which operates the Penang Bridge.

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In the proposal, it was believed that Maju Holdings offered RM2 billion cash to UEM Bhd, and EPF each and takeover the RM30billion plus borrowings.

However, it was not disclosed how the borrowings would be taken over.

It is unsure whether Maju Holdings could finance the RM30 billion plus borrowings taken over from UEM and EPF.

It is assumed that the Maju Holdings would raised from the debt market. If it is so, then it is most likely that the PLUS highway System assets would be pledged as the collateral for the financing scheme.

Currently, UEM and EPF is financing the entire borrowings from local banks and debt market.

Considering major banks such as Maybank is controlled by PNB, CIMB is under Khazanah and RHB is under EPF, there is a lot of comfort provided in event of default on UEM part to meet its financial obligations.

What is interesting that Abu said Maju Holdings is able to offer highway users no increase in toll rates for twenty years,

PLUS has not raised the highway toll rates since 2005, despite the PLUS highway system has been upgraded since which include additional lanes and bigger and better rest and recreation facilities.

There have been the arguments that despite the agreement to review toll rates every three years, PLUS had maintained the same rates since the last twelve years is translated through the concession being fulfilled by Federal Government grant.

On the same note, UEM have provided more than RM1 billion in profits year-on-year to the shareholders, mainly Khazanah and EPF.

Probably if Maju Holdings could package a better proposal in eyes of the public, backed by convincing remarks by local investment banks repressing the local debt and capital market, the Federal Government might be attracted sit down address the proposal accordingly.

 

 

 


Barua, Bohong dan Betrayal

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Perdana Menteri Malaysia IV Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad membuktikan ketamakan mengutamakan agenda peribadi membatasi kepentingan segalanya termasuk menggadai kuasa politik bangsa sendiri apabila mencemarkan perjuangan dan pertentangan agenda Cina Cauvinis Cina DAP.

Laporan Utusan Malaysia:

Dr. Mahathir akhirnya tewas kepada DAP

Dr. MAHATHIR MOHAMAD berkunjung ke Ibu pejabat DAP, Kuala Lumpur
DR. MAHATHIR MOHAMAD berkunjung ke Ibu pejabat DAP, Kuala Lumpur buat pertama kali dalam sejarah untuk menghadiri mesyuarat Majlis Presiden Pakatan Harapan, kelmarin.

KUALA LUMPUR 4 Okt. – Tindak-tanduk terbaharu Tun Dr. Mahat­hir Mohamad yang sanggup menjejakkan kaki buat kali pertama ke Ibu pejabat DAP disifatkan sebagai simbol ‘kekalahannya’ kepada parti itu.

Pandangan itu disuarakan oleh Presiden Majlis Bekas Wakil Rakyat Malaysia (Mubarak), Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Rahman yang ma­sih lagi terkejut dengan tindakan bekas Perdana Menteri itu.

Beliau juga percaya ramai orang Melayu ‘menangis’ melihat peristiwa tersebut kerana tidak menyangka suatu hari, bekas pe­mimpin dikenali dunia tunduk serta akur menjejakkan kaki ke ibu pejabat sebuah parti yang se­panjang 22 tahun pentadbirannya merupakan musuh sejati.

“Dulu beliau dikenali di selu­ruh dunia, nama beliau amat gah.­ Kini, beliau tinggalkan perjuangan bangsa dan menggugat kedudukan negara.

“Perjuangan orang Melayu telah digoncang dengan kemunculan Dr. Mahathir di Ibu pejabat DAP. Beliau sudah ‘menyerah kalah’ kepada DAP, ini tindakan terdesak yang boleh menggadai masa depan bangsa serta negara,” katanya ketika dihubungi di sini hari ini.

Beliau mengulas tindakan Dr. Mahathir yang buat pertama kali dalam sejarah politik beliau menjejakkan kaki ke Ibu pejabat DAP di sini malam semalam.

Kehadiran Dr. Mahathir ke ba­ngunan tersebut adalah untuk me­nghadiri mesyuarat Majlis Presiden Pakatan Harapan.

Menerusi gambar dimuat naik di laman Facebook DAP, Dr. Mahathir dilihat duduk berlatar­belakangkan logo parti itu dan bersebelahan dengan Setiausaha Agung DAP yang belum disahkan jawatan, Lim Guan Eng.

Setiausaha Veteran UMNO Malaysia, Datuk Mustapha Yaakub pula berpendapat, Dr. Mahathir hari ini adalah individu berbeza ketika beliau mengetuai pentadbiran negara dan juga UMNO suatu ketika dulu.

Beliau menjelaskan, Pengerusi Pakatan Harapan itu pada hari ini telah tewas dan tersungkur di dada DAP semata-mata kerana rasa dendam terhadap kepe­mimpinan sedia ada.

Artikel Penuh: http://www.utusan.com.my/berita/politik/dr-mahathir-akhirnya-tewas-kepada-dap-1.534148#ixzz4udYjVbNN
© Utusan Melayu (M) Bhd

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Kerjasama Dr. Mahathir dengan DAP ialah umpama master-slave, dimana DAP memperalatkan sepenuhnya dan eksploiit habis-habisan aura dan kedududkan pemimpin Melayu terutama, selama lebin 40 tahun (5 tahun sebagai Timbalan Perdana Menteri, 22 tahun sebagai Perdana Menteri dan lebin 13 tahun sebagau Negarawan).

Pertama isu kerjasama dengan DAP bagi ‘Deklarasi Rakyat’ yang dilancarkan pada 8 Mac 2016.

his Majesty the King wouldn’t accommodate Tun Dr. Mahathir at arms with the Opposition, particularly his nemesis for 49 years Lim Kit Siang and DAP

Setelah gagal teruk menjatuhkan Perdana Menteri Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak memnggunakan pegawai-pegawai tertinggi Kerajaan yang Dr. Mahathir anggap masih ‘setia’ kepada beliau dan akan mnggunakan kes skandal kommersil 1MDB yang tidak cukup substantif itu untuk menekan Perdana Meneteri Najib berundur 30 bulan lampau, dicubanya melalui sistem mesyuarat AGM tahunan Bahagian UMNO.

Apabila itu gagal, Dr. Mahathir cuba menyuntik idea bahawa berlaku skandal 1MDB dan akan menjejaskan UMNO dan Kerajaan melalui Perwakilan Perhimpunan Agung UMNO 2015 pula. Itu juga kecundang.

Dr. Mahathir dalam masa yang sama, cuba menggunakan Parlimen untuk membawa usul ‘Undi Tidak Percaya’ kupada Perdana Menteri Najib. Itu juga gagal.

Sebagai reaksi, beliau berdrama meninggalkan UMNO sekali lagi. Ianya tidak menimbulkan apa-apa mesan malay ahli UMNO melayan tindaka itu umpama ‘seorang kanak-kanak manja yang gagal kemahuannnya dilayan’.

Kemudian, segala ‘U-Turn’ berkenaan segala deklarasi, label dan asas pertentangan parti Cuavinis Cina DAP selama setengah abad ini bahawa ianya “Rasis”, “Ekstremis” dan “Pelampau Perkauman”.

Dr Mahathir kunun-kunun cuba bermain ‘Wayang Kulit’ dan percubaan memaparkan bahawa sebenarnya DAP bukanlah sebuah parti Chauvinis Cina tetapi parti majmuk Malaysia sebenar.

Kerjasama terawal Dr. Mahathir bersama Emperorissimo Chauvinis Cina Lim Kit Siang dan Lim Guan Eng jalan apabila melancarkan ‘Deklarasi Rakyat’ pada 8 Mac 2016, dengan missi mengutip 1.4 juta tandatangan kepada petisyen.

Semasa kempen jelajah satu Malaysia mengutip tandatangan, Dr. Mahathir membayangkan bahawa petisyen ini akan dipersembahkan kepada DYMM Raja Raja Melayu sebagai usage untuk menjatuhkan Perdana Menteri Najib.

Walaupun, itu adalah pembohongan dan hakikatnya itu tidak akan berlaku sama sekali.

Dr. Mahathir dalam keghairahan menjatuhkan Perdana Menteri Najib, agen-agen beliau telah bertebaran meerata dunia sebagai “warga Malaysia yang amat perihatin” pergi membuat laporan kepada agensi penguasa dan perundangan dibeberapa negara antarabangsa.

Laporan yang dikemukakan merupakan salinan dan/atau bahan yang dipaparkan dipelbagai media antarabangsa untuk memberikan gambaran berlaku skandal kewangan antarabangsa di 1MDB dan ianya melibatkan pemimpin negara.

Kekecatan nyata laporan dan paparan tersebut jalan bulto yang substantif dan kredibel untuk membawa penyiasatan yang boleh sampai ke proses pendakwaan, terutama dari narratif yang dibuat iaitu “Kecurian”, “Penipuan”, “Pecah Amanah” dan “Penggubahan Wang Haram”.

Apa yang terhasil sepanjang hamper dua tahun ini ialah media antarabangsa, berkerjasama dengan beberapa agensi penguat kuasa mengggunakan narratif amat berkuasa seperti ‘Kerajaan Kleptokrasi” dan ianya diulang-ulang sebagai propaganda bagi memburukkan kepimpinan Perdana Menteri Najib.

Namun hakikatnya, tiada bukti kukuh yang pernah dikemukakan mana-mana pihak temasuk DoJ Amerika Syarikat yang membuat pengumuman yang sama pada dua Juli berbeza.

Perkara yang paling penting dan menarik galah sehingga setakat ini, tiada tindakan undang-undang berasaskan akta kesalahan, hasil dalam negeri maupun penggubahan wang haram dan apa-apa berkaitan kegiatan jenayah terancang pernah dikemukakan berkenaan 1MDB.

Apabila Pakatan Harapan direpackej semula, tangan halimunan DAP tidak kelihatan walaupun Dr. Mahathir dan pemimpin-pemimpin Melayu lain seperti Tan Sri Muhyiddin Mohd. Yassin, Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Mat Sabu dan sebagainya tidak jujur dalam keadaan sebenar Pembangkang didalangi DAP.

Hakikatnya, DAP menyumbang kupada 50% kerusi Pakatan Harapan hari ini di Parlimen menunjukkan kuasa strategik dan operational parti Chauvinis Cina tersebut.

Kini, Dr. Mahathir tertibat pula secara langsung dalam sebagahagian dari drama-tari kegiatan membina dana politik parti ‘Anti Melayu’ ini.

Laporan Malaysian Insight:

Dr Mahathir helps former nemesis DAP raise RM250,000


Looi Sue-Chern

Dr Mahathir helps former nemesis DAP raise RM250,000
Pakatan Harapan chairman Dr Mahathir Mohamad shakes hands with DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng at the DAP fundraising dinner at Spice Arena in Bayan Baru, Penang, yesterday night. – The Malaysian Insight pic by Seth Akmal, September 24, 2017.
IN his time, Dr Mahathir Mohamad had these politicians detained without trial.But last night, he was in Penang to help these very people raise close to RM250,000.The former prime minister, who is now chairman of the opposition coalition Pakatan Harapan, was the main speaker at the DAP fundraising dinner at SPICE Arena in Bayan Baru, which was attended by more than 3,000 people.His portrait, and those of DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, DAP parliamentary leader Lim Kit Siang, PKR de factor leader Anwar Ibrahim and Amanah president Mohamad Sabu were auctioned off at a starting bid of RM20,000 to raise funds for the party.

Dr Mahathir and DAP both have come a long way since his days as the prime minister. It was under his administration that both Guan Eng and his father Kit Siang were detained under the Internal Security Act during the Op Lalang crackdown.

Now, as PH chairman, Dr Mahathir heads the opposition’s offensive against the Barisan Nasional coalition and former protege Prime Minister Najib Razak.

Pakatan Harapan chairman Dr Mahathir Mohamad is the main speaker at the DAP fundraising dinner at Spice Arena in Bayan Baru, Penang, yesterday night. – The Malaysian Insight pic by Seth Akmal, September 24, 2017.
Pakatan Harapan chairman Dr Mahathir Mohamad is the main speaker at the DAP fundraising dinner at Spice Arena in Bayan Baru, Penang, yesterday night. – The Malaysian Insight pic by Seth Akmal, September 24, 2017.

True to form, much of his 40-minute speech was dedicated to Najib, whom he blamed for giving Malaysia the kleptocracy label through the 1Malaysia Development Bhd scandal.

Dr Mahathir pointed out that Najib was not as confident as before, and was even afraid.

“I am glad to say that up until now, PH has been seeing Malaysians of different races, communities and tribes who have shown us great support.

“In the past, Najib believed that he had Sabah and Sarawak as fixed deposits. Now he is not so confident. He’s afraid.

“This man, he always smiles. But behind that smile, his heart is beating very, very fast.

“That is why he has no courage to call for the general election. PH is ready to beat BN,” he said to the cheering crowd.

 

Dr Mahathir suggested that Najib would wait until next year to call for the polls, but added Najib may not even hold the polls, something that could be could easily accomplished by the prime minister who had the power to have emergency declared.

“It is very easy. All he has to do is to ask Ali Tinju (army veteran and Malay NGO leader Mohd Ali Baharom), or some other ‘pengganas’ (terrorist) to throw some chairs.

“When chairs are tossed around, Najib can declare an emergency because there is a riot. So no election. If he loses (the election), he can also declare an emergency to prevent the change of government,” he said.

Dr Mahathir was making a reference to the fracas that disrupted the Nothing to Hide 2.0 forum in Shah Alam last month when he spoke about the 1MDB scandal. He was taking questions from the floor when shoes and chairs were thrown in his direction while two flares were also lit.

“But if Najib suffers a disastrous loss, he cannot do anything.

“So I am appealing to all of you. If you love this country, want to see it developed peacefully, have a good life, then give PH the biggest majority.

“We are not asking you to go to war or join demonstrations. Just put a cross for PH,” he told the crowd.

The crowd laughed and cheered as Dr Mahathir continued to poke fun at Najib and his “most expensive photo-op” with US President Donald Trump during his recent visit to the White House to “strengthen the US economy”.

Other PH leaders who spoke at the dinner were DAP vice-president and Ipoh Barat MP M. Kulasegaran, Penang DAP chairman Chow Kon Yeow, PKR secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, and Mohamad. – September 24, 2017.

More than 3,000 people attend the DAP fundraising dinner at Spice Arena in Bayan Baru, Penang, yesterday night. – The Malaysian Insight pic by Seth Akmal, September 24, 2017.
More than 3,000 people attend the DAP fundraising dinner at Spice Arena in Bayan Baru, Penang, yesterday night. – The Malaysian Insight pic by Seth Akmal, September 24, 2017.

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Setakat tiga puluh bulan ini, Dr. Mahathir kecundangan denna segala helah dan muslihat untuk menjatuhkan Perdana Menteri Najib. Ianya gagal kerana bukti yang Dr. Mahathir cuba paparkan itu adalah tidak substantif dan lebih kepada baur politik berbanding dengan kesalahan sebenar, termasuk diukur dari kedudukan moral.

Maka Dr. Mahathir akan terus dengan agenda kesumat peirbadi menjatuhkan Perdana Menteri Najib denna apacara sekali pun, termasuk menafikan kedudukan dan prinsip yang beliau pernah ambil.

Mengoptimumkan modal kedudukan sebagai pemimpim tertinggi orang Melayu dan Negarawan selama lebih empat dekad sebagai tawaran utama untuk menaut undi orang Melayu dan menyerahkan buta-buta kepada Cina Cauvinis DAP merupakan pengkhianat kepada Bangsa Melayu yang paling buruk.

Hakikatnya, Dr. Mahathir tergamak menjadi kuda tunggangan dan ‘Trojan Horse’ parti Chauvinis Cina DAP untuk menembusi dan melemahkan segala pertahanan kota-kuasa politik orang Melayu yang menjadi tunggak survival orang Melayu semenjak 1946, demi agenda peribadi menjatuhkan Perdana Menteri Najib.

 

 

 


Klepetocracy

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The hypocrisy of Pakatan Harapan Chiarman Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad is glaringly abundant when he is completely silent on the RM305 million consultancy for the bogus Penang channel project.

The Star story:

Works Ministry yet to receive Penang tunnel reports after 18 month

 

  • Monday, 9 Oct 2017

PETALING JAYA: The Works Ministry says it has yet to receive “a single page” of the tunnel reports promised by the Penang state government 18 months ago.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof (pic) said that Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng had written to him in April last year asking for the “tunnel to be changed to a bridge”.

“I told him that our ministry cannot approve (this) based on a two-page letter and had asked them to send me their feasibility and detailed design studies of the three roads and tunnel that cost them RM305mil in consultancy fees alone,” Fadillah said in a statement Monday.

He added that his ministry was “very eager and curious” to see the reports which had cost the Penang government RM305mil.

“However, he (Lim) did not send anything to me,” said Fadillah.

“He then gave the excuse that the studies were 83% completed, promised that it would be completed by the end of last year, and would send it to us once done.

“That did not happen,” he said.

When asked again about the delay in March this year, Fadillah said that Lim said that the reports were only 87% completed and promised they would be sent in six months.

“Again, the deadline has passed and as of today, we have yet to receive a single page of these reports,” said Fadillah.

“I find the delay very unusual as the project was awarded in April 2013,” he said.

Fadillah said construction has not yet started as the RM305mil reports were not ready.

He also said that if projects under his ministry had experienced similar delays, it would come under heavy criticism by the Opposition.

Read more at http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/10/09/works-ministry-yet-to-receive-penang-tunnel-reports-after-18-months/#kFWez7TGTU5b28dR.99

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The Malay Mail Online story:

Monday October 9, 2017
06:29 PM GMT+8

ICYMI

image: http://www.themalaymailonline.com/uploads/articles/2017/2017-06/fadillah_yusof_bernama_120617_01.jpg

Fadillah said he found the delay 'very unusual' given that the contract was awarded in April 2013 and that no progress has since taken place after the Penang government paid almost RM220 million for it. — Bernama picFadillah said he found the delay ‘very unusual’ given that the contract was awarded in April 2013 and that no progress has since taken place after the Penang government paid almost RM220 million for it. — Bernama picKUALA LUMPUR, Oct 9 — The Works Ministry said today it has yet to receive feasibility reports on the Penang tunnel project.Its minister, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, said Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng first promised to deliver the report in April last year, but had not done so yet.

“At that time, we were very eager and curious to see what reports that cost RM305 million looks like as based on our ministry’s experience, it seems vastly overpriced,” Fadillah said in a statement issued today.

The feasibility report, Fadillah said, was requested after Lim wanted to change the tunnel to a bridge.

“However, he (Lim) did not send anything to me,” he added.

Fadillah claimed Lim had then promised that the report would be submitted by the end of last year, but had not done so.

“In March this year, the Penang CM said it was still only 87 per cent completed and promised that they will send it six months later,” he said, adding the deadline has since passed.

Fadillah said he found the delay “very unusual” given that the contract was awarded in April 2013 and that no progress has since taken place after the Penang government paid almost RM220 million for it.

“If a project by our ministry experiences delay or have areas of concern like their project, we would have been under intense criticism by the Opposition with many allegations of corruption or cronyism,” he said.

Previously, Barisan Nasional Strategic Communications deputy director Datuk Eric See-To claimed that the Penang state government had overpaid the consulting fees for the three paired roads component of the undersea tunnel project.

Read more at http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/putrajaya-says-have-yet-to-receive-feasibility-reports-on-penang-tunnel#I0O5QZpv8742a6Jd.99

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The failure to produce the said reports despite RM220 million already being paid should be seen as an act tantamount to fraud.

The Board of Engineers already opined the consultancy fees are 400% above practice.

It is highly unusual for design and feasibility study jobs awarded more than 54 months ago is yet to be completed, having to consider than RM220 million already paid.

Considering Penang State Government under Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng condoned to this act to fraud, the DAP led Government should be  be spoken in the tone as a ‘Kleptocracy Government’.

At the moment, Chief Minister Lim has also been charged for graft and awaiting trial.

Dr Mahathir should make his stand on the matter because this is real public interest and the delay tactics is an apparent manifestation for the DAP leaders unable to answer for the real ‘Klepetocracy’.

 


Flotilla of Fake

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Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia Youth (ARMADA) Chief Syed Saddiq Abul Rahman has trapped himself into the drama on top of another drama, to manifest the truth that his party struggle is about a very big lie.

The Mole story:

Pribumi Bersatu Youth chief admits to miscommunication

YM_20171004_SYED_SADDIQ__01
Zaidi Azmi
Written by Zaidi Azmi

PETALING JAYA – October 10, 2017: Pribumi Bersatu Youth chief Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman has admitted that his feud with several former prominent party members was due to miscommunication.

At a meeting with a former ally who he had accused of being offered bribe to ditch the party, Syed Saddiq remarked that the problem was then aggravated by some instigators within the party.

Syed Saddiq, on October 4, claimed that former party vice-president Datuk Hamidah Osman, founding member Kamarul Zaman Habibur Rahman and member Hamizura Osman were offered RM5 million to leave the party.

This allegation came to be months after the trio had dumped the party, a decision which they blamed on frequent backbiting.

Although Syed Saddiq did not accuse them of accepting the bribes, his passionate demeanour during the revelation had many convinced that this indeed was the cause, so much so that it even compelled Hamidah and Kamarul Zaman to lodge police reports against Syed Saddiq.

At the meeting today, Syed Saddiq reiterated that he and his family had received a similar offer but he only knew about the offer to the others from a party member.

He however refused to disclose the identity of his informer and how the latter knew about the RM5 million offer.

“I cannot comment further on this because it involves a pertinent police investigation regarding an attempt to blackmail me and my family,” said Syed Saddiq.

Hamizura had, after the meeting with Syed Saddiq, told the press that she was glad he had decided to attend it and that she hoped her clarification would solve their feud.

“Syed Saddiq had never tried to verify such a rumour with us but that is all in the past. I have already explained to him that we were not blackmailed.

“I know that he had already apologised to us but I wanted him to know that the way he did it was not convincing,” said Hamizura.

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Syed Saddiq tried to back paddle in his pathetic attempt to recover the disdain Part Bunga and blame it on “Miscommunication”.

All along Syed Saddiq played the role of the attack dog on the various egg-in-the-face circumstances for the party, which was incepted for the personal agenda of Pakatan Harapan Chairman Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.

This is not with standing the all the dramas, to divert the shortcomings, failures and lies within Dr. Mahathir’s party soiled with nepotism, favouritism and hypocrisy.


Mukhriz’s Musical Chair

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PPBM Deputy President Dato’ Seri Mukhriz Mahathir woke up to reality that he no longer enjoy the support and stardom which include the Alumni lead when he received no nomination for the upcoming AGM where there is a Central Committee election.

When nomination closed at 500pm, Alumni of Maktab Rendah Sains MARA students (ANSARA) Secretary General Ahmad Bazlan Che Kassim announced that Mukhriz as the incumbent President reviewed no nomination.

Out of 22 different MRSM Alumni chapters which formed ANSARA, nominations for the President post where only made for ANSARA Deputy President Harun Aminurashid Malek, who is Kuantan chapter and Dato’ Kamarul Redzuan, who is Kota Bahru chapter

Several ANSARA chapters who were said to be “Mukhriz friendly” also did not nominate him.

It was said that Mukhriz is no longer interested to defend his seat, because of “Overstaying his welcome”.

Then again, the writing is on the wall. February last year he resigned as MB Kedah when he lost the majority support of BN ADUNs of Kedah State Assembly and UMNO Kedah leaders.

He was then summarily sacked from UMNO.

Mukhriz who joined a dissent party which is now part of Opposition pact Pakatan Harapan, is Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia Deputy President. He is also Vice Chairman of Pakatan Harapan.

In ANSARA AGM September last year, he was suggested to “Take a leave if absence until an AGM where there is election for Central Committee” but Mukhriz rejected the proposition.

The Star story:

Mukhriz’s helming of alumni body questioned


PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir has come under pressure to “take leave” as president of Ansara, an NGO he has headed for more than 22 years.

The call for Mukhriz to step aside came from one of his former ardent supporters, Zakhir Mohamed, who is better known by his blogging nom de plume “Bigdog”.

Ansara is the association of former Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) students and is reputed to be the biggest alumni body in Malaysia, given that thousands of Malay students have passed through the 47 MRSM colleges.

Zakhir made the call during Ansara’s annual general meeting on Sunday at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

The former Kedah mentri besar is now with Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia which has joined forces with the Opposition.

Zakhir, who spoke towards the end of the AGM, made a veiled critique of Mukhriz’s opening speech which asked Ansara to be the agent of change and to uphold integrity.

He said that Mukhriz was putting Ansara in a difficult situation now that he is a leading Opposition figure.

“Ansara tries to be apolitical but it has been our practice to be supportive of the Government which put us here. By wearing the Opposition hat, he has compromised the interests of our association,” said Zakhir.

He claimed he had received support from alumni members for speaking up.

“I received messages saying this was the right time for a change because he is no longer with the Government and that Ansara needs someone more dynamic,” said Zakhir.

Former Ansara vice-president Datuk Sazmi Miah, who attended the same MRSM as Mukhriz in Kelantan, said it was unnecessary for Mukhriz to resign because he had never used the association to make political statements or to attack the Government.

Sazmi said attempts to push Mukhriz out were politically motivated.

However, an Ansara member and CEO of a government-linked corporation said Ansara was closely associated with the Government and that ministers often attended its programmes.

He said members were right to be concerned about the future direction of Ansara under an Opposition figure.

However, he said that any move to remove the president should be decided by the members.

Read more at http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/09/30/mukhrizs-helming-of-alumni-body-questioned/#1ES0FvVKVD1uqELp.99

**************

Tun Dr. Mahathir reacted emotionally with name-calling, quite quickly after the AGM.

Now that even amongst brethren of ANSARA Mukhriz failed to be convinced his value and worthiness to continue as a leader, it is unsure how ‘the market’ will react to him as an Opposition leader.

It is very interesting since PPBM is trying to portray itself as playing the primary role in challenging and capturing UMNO seats in the upcoming 14GE.

UMNO is the party with the most seats in Dewan Rakyat, which is 87 out of 132 BN seats. PPBM enjoys only a single seat.

So far, there has been rebellion within PPBM in the likes of founding member Kamarul Ariffin, Hamidah Osman and Ainina Saaduddin. They claimed of “Nepotism, favouritism and undemocratic practices” within the party.

ANSARA Secretary General Bazlan is also the solicitor representing Ainina and PPBM Chairman Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad in various cases pertaining to politics and the challenge against Prime Minister Najib.

Mukhriz senior aide as MB Kedah Ahmad Faisal Azumu is PPBM Chairman for Perak.

It is interesting to carefully watch Mukhriz’s ability to progress, considering he did not get far with UMNO. For the record, he lost the bid for UMNO Youth Chief in 2009 and Vie President in 2013.

Now that the ANSARA dominion has spoken, there is lesser seats left as the music draws nearer to come to an end.



Kelepeto-crashing

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Pakatan Harapan Dinosaur Duo Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad-Lim Kit Siang’s Anti-Kleptocracy rally in Petaling Jaya today saw their lies no longer have traction.

At the height of the usual Opposition rally which is nighttime, the attendance was abundantly very poor.

Despite it is held in a Chinese majority area in the vicinity of the original DAP HQ, it estimated that the attendance was at best 4,000 tonight and 6,000 in the evening.

It is safe to assume even Opposition party members and their hard core supporters did not turn up.

In the previous Opposition backed rallies like BERSIH, majority of those who attended were either supporters of Opposition parties like PAS and the later ones were the Chinese. The Chinese gave en-bloc support to DAP since two GEs ago.

Many factors are attributable to the present poor support towards the Opposition.

One, the absence of PAS is a key factor for the low turnout of attendees amongst the Malays. During BERSIH 1-3, PAS organised bus loads of their supporters from the Malay hinterland.

It is obvious that high turnout for BERSIH 4 and 5, was about the Chinese coming out in their support of the Opposition particularly the DAP and sending a strong message to the Government.

Two, majority amongst the Chinese grassroots who had been the traditional supporters of Chinese Chauvinist DAP have since been very uncomfortable with the cosy co-operation and partnership with Dr Mahathir.

Dr Mahathir had never been shy attacking Lim Kit Siang and the Chinese Chauvinist DAP as “racists and ethnic extremists”, had demonstrated the ultimate hypocrisy by forging relationship and later work in tandem with his mortal nemesis of half a century.

The objective is toppling Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak, now that he cannot to do it true UMNO and getting a vote of no confidence through Parliament.

He even tried to get an audience with His Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda Yang DiPertuan Agong and the bretheren of HRH Malay Rulers.

This, is amongst many other hypocrisy are irrecoverable impression despite previously they are willing to respect the stance of the two being political nemesis for the longest time.

Third, the obsessive narrative of “Kleptocracy” don’t really hit off with the majority of Malaysians. It is abundantly clear that they are no longer interested on the 1MDB issue which the Opposition particularly Dr Mahathir trying to made it contentious and scandalous.

Majority of Malaysians are not convinced that individuals at the top are ‘stealing’ from Government coffers though they do believe in various cases of corruption, especially the ones highlighted by ongoing investigations and some already facing trial.

Fourth, None of their stories or the ones that they are holding in their attempt to run down the Government particular Prime Minister Najib pertaining “The scandals and wrong doings which include theft, cheating, criminal breach of trust and money laundering about and to 1MDB” ever been substantiated.

The conveniently hold on to the two year-on-year announcement from United States Depart of Justice pertaining to 1MDB as their political capital to run down Prime Minister Najib.

The fact is that till present, no criminal charge has ever been made to anything directly pertaining to 1MDB which include its assets, deposits and/or anyone who is an 1MDB official in any court, anywhere in the world.

Even DAP MP Tony Pua suit against Prime Minister Najib failed.

The Star story:

High Court strikes out Tony Pua’s suit against Najib


KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court allowed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s application to strike out DAP’s Tony Pua’s suit over alleged misconduct in relation to the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) funds.

Judicial Commissioner Faizah Jamaludin ruled that the Prime Minister is not a public officer, and thus did not hold public office.

She also found Pua lacked locus standi (the right to bring an action) as a taxpayer does not have the direct right to property belonging to a Government-linked company in the same way a stockholder owns stocks in a company, though not its properties directly.

JC Faizah struck out the suit, as per Order 18 Rule 19 (1) of the Rules of High Court, and ordered Pua pay RM5,000 in costs each, to Najib and the Government.

Najib was represented by lawyer Tan Sri Cecil Abraham, while senior federal counsel Alice Loke acted for the Government.

Najib filed the application to strike out Pua’s suit on Feb 14, on grounds that he is not a civil servant as alleged by Pua in his statement of claim, and that the suit is also an abuse of the court process.

The government also filed an application to strike out the suit on March 2 on the grounds that Pua has no locus standi to make the claim and that the suit is frivolous, vexatious and does not disclose a reasonable cause of action.

Pua sued the government and Najib on Jan 16 claiming that the PM committed misfeasance in public office involving 1MDB funds.

 

Read more at http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/10/13/high-court-strikes-out-tony-puas-suit-against-najib/#qW6jM3cYDOjsylL6.99

*************

Fifth, Opposition leaders particularly in DAP are already in hot soup facing the music of criminal practices for graft in the likes of Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and the various contentious and scandalous cases involving many DAP leaders in Penang.

The latest controversy of the failure to furnish design and various reports to Ministry of Works pertaining to the proposed tunnel and later Penang State Government intention to do a third bridge instead from Bagam Ajam to Tanjung Bunga.

It is damning when RM220 in consultancy fees have been dished out.

Sixth, Dr. Mahathir was the last to speak. He talked about combatting corruption, almost completely like he is completely independent and isolated on it.

His partner Lim Guan Eng and several of the DAP linked individuals in Penang are currently on trial or in the investigations for various corruption cases.

In Selangor, there are stream of stories surfacing about the corruption practices of MB Dato’ Seri Azmin Mohamed Ali.

It ranges from short changing settlers, payment to default contractors pertaining hostel facilities for UNISEL students to the latest rumour about collection of rental from PPRT dwellers that went missing.

Currently in Sabah, MACC is holding a massive investigations about the corruption of Ministry of Rural and Territory Development (KKLW) to the amount of RM1.5 billion skimmed off when his Pakatan Harapan Sabah ally Dato’ Seri Shafie Apdal was the Minister.

Seventh, Dr Mahathir’s hypocrisy also include about “Direct negotiations for contracts and projects”. These are practiced widely during his tenure as the Fourth Prime Minister and many of his cronies which is believed also included business where his children have interests benefitted from such scheme.

The Malaysian public are very aware of these ‘open secrets’. Cronyism was actually the theme when then UMNO Deputy President Anwar Ibrahim decided to mount a challenge against him in 1997.

When Anwar was sacked on 2 September 1998 as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, he went to town the sacking was about “Dr. Mahathir protecting his cronyism and being dictatorial”.

Eighth point is about that it is obvious that when investigations against Azmin and Shafie are completed and they are charged for corruption, particularly involving funds for the facilities which meant to uplift the poor and rural dwellers, that it is the Opposition leaders who are the Kleptocrats.

Dr. Mahathir attacked MACC for their ongoing investigations pertaining to KKLW and accused that the graft busting agency is a political tool instead of deploring the act which tantamount to ‘Kleptocracy’.

Ninth, it is the Opposition leaders who are in power who are abusing and using their power to enrich themselves and cronies from projects which are meant for the poor, is the act of ‘Kleptocracy’.

Lim Guan Eng already standing in criminal court for it. Persons linked to Shafie Apdal are already being detained under remand order for the investigations. Rumour has it, soon Azmin Ali would also has to face investigations.

Tenth. Dr. Mahathir is manifesting absolute  hypocrisy for attacking all these criminal charges and investigations by the Attorney General and MACC as being political tool for the Government but in his summation, promise to combat graft if Pakatan Harapan comes to power.

The rakyat did once opted for them to be tested with power and not only no progress, the Opposition when in power are far worse against the stories that they demonise what BN Government had been doing all these years,

Soon the rakyat would begin to see this light and Dr. Mahathir and his Motley Crew are about hypocrisy with negative and destructive politics. Then, it would be Kelepeto-crashing upon the real liars and pubic enemies.

*Updated midnight

 

 


Kelepeto-basi

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All and sundry, Malaysians are getting tired of Master Hypocrite Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad lead Opposition pact Pakatan Harapan and their destructive negative over politicking is no longer getting traction.

Pro-Opposition portal Malaysiakini story:

Lower youth turn out at anti-kleptocracy rally bad sign for Harapan

48 commentsAlyaa Alhadjri     Published     Updated

Read more at https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/398409#hzmBsEDdsICSm6rm.99

A recent study which claimed that youth voters were politically disenchanted appeared to be reaffirmed by their conspicuous absence at Pakatan Harapan’s anti-kleptocracy rally last night.

With two hours left before the end of Pakatan Harapan’s anti-kleptocracy rally at 11PM, a t-shirt seller was already preparing to pack and leave.

“Just selling 25 t-shirts is as tough as pulling a cow!” grumbled the man who first introduced himself as ‘Ali Baba’.

“My name is Lee. (I’m a) Baba Melaka, muka macam Melayu (my face is like a Malay),” he quipped when met by Malaysiakini.

From the few rally t-shirts that he sold in four hours, Lee noted how all his customers were middle-aged or older.

“I only sold L size, XL size…orang perutbuncit (for pot-bellied people). Where are the young people?” he asked.

image: https://i.malaysiakini.com/1168/d60251638a08a5235993f5e1e4c3a4c4.jpeg

 

This same question was asked by other observers of the “Sayang Malaysia, Hapuskan Kleptokrasi” (Love Malaysia, Eliminate Kleptocracy) rally at Padang Timur, Petaling Jaya.

An older crowd had dominated the rally, which Malaysiakini estimated to be over 8,000 strong at its peak.

The notable absence of young blood at the rally has raised more pressing concerns on whether they would support a growing call to abstain from voting in the upcoming 14th general elections.

Analyst Wong Chin Huat said this was something that Harapan should be worried about.

“Voters are fatigued because they don’t feel ownership in the future.

“Fatigue is good for BN but bad for Pakatan Harapan,” Wong told Malaysiakini.

“BN tries to convince young voters that all politicians are the same, just mudslinging, ‘so why should you be bothered to vote?’,” he claimed, adding that Harapan should take steps to prove BN wrong.

Wong said Harapan should work to engage voters as partners to rebuild the nation, rather than merely rallying them as soldiers to reclaim the nation.

Among others, he said Harapan’s election manifesto should not contain a long list of vague promises, but rather be presented as a roadmap or plan of action for its first 100 days, first 12 months, 24 months and so on.

image: https://i.malaysiakini.com/1168/9f30b8e1e9490474c7d344f60f61eea7.jpeg

 

It is such a roadmap of policies that the youth want to hear according to student activist Asheeq Ali Sethi Alivi, and not recycled issues surrounding the 1MDB scandal and Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

“Yesterday in the crowd, people were more excited and they applauded when (Penang chief minister) Lim Guan Eng mentioned about repealing the GST, and when (former premier Dr) Mahathir (Mohamad) talked about increasing job opportunities and scholarships.

“These are the issues that resonate more with Malaysians, not how much does Najib have in his account,” he said.

He stressed that it is a fact which must be accepted by the federal opposition pact.

image: https://i.malaysiakini.com/1168/24f8464db7c306e9ba193261c9862be8.jpeg

 

The UKM law student, who was among organiser’s of last year’s Tangkap Malaysian Official 1 rally in Kuala Lumpur, also noted that the carnival-like atmosphere yesterday had turned away a segment of “disappointed” youths.

“Bersih 4 was much more impactful because it was confrontational. But after Bersih 4, all rallies became just like a celebration with songs and speeches.

“It’s no longer a (protest) rally and this is also one of the reason,” he said.

Concurring with Asheeq, human rights group Suaram activist Amir Abdul Hadi said a growing number of youths now no longer views the opposition as being a worthy alternative to BN.

“The opposition is now part of mainstream politics, with two state-governments. They no longer offer a counter-culture.

“It used to be different when they are smaller and oppressed. The fighting spirit is different,” said Amir (right, in photo) who added that he was also initially in two minds about attending the rally.

image: https://i.malaysiakini.com/1168/a6843742d63a844327b9ddd8caecab73.jpeg

 

For the youths who did attend the rally, Amir noted that they were part of a newer group of supporters and largely mobilised by Bersatu’s Youth Wing, Armada.

However. he was optimistic that the turnout figure at a rally or ceramah session, would not be an accurate representation of voting trends among youths.

‘Youths losing faith’ 

On the other hand, PSM Youth chief Khalid Ismath claimed that both Harapan and BN should be worried of losing youths support in GE14.

“Youths are beginning to see that there is not much difference between governments led by Harapan or BN.

“In Selangor itself there are so many issues,” said Khalid who cited, among others, the latest case of housing demolitions in Subang which saw Selangor Menteri Besar Azmin Ali trading barbs with Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Minister Noh Omar.

Khalid also claimed that youths who are politically aware would never acknowledge Harapan chairperson Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the leader of the “anti-kleptocracy” movement, due to alleged transgressions during his 22-years reign as prime minister.

image: https://i.malaysiakini.com/1168/eb396cc8e00c9a0977e76d31bf914b99.jpeg

 

Similarly, Federal Territories Umno Youth chief Razlan Rafii said that youths will not be fooled by Harapan leaders who are allegedly only out to gain power, at all costs.

As such, Razlan told Malaysiakini he believes that the lower turnout would, in turn, translate into a higher number of youths support towards BN.

In the weeks leading up to the rally, Harapan had set an initial target of 100,000 participants, before later revising it down to about 30,000.

At the end of the rally, Harapan had claimed a turnout of 25,000, while police capped the figure at around 4,000.

Read more at https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/398409#5g03JTmZfyUekGtz.99

******************

Over politicising ‘Kleptocracy’ left majority of Malaysians dazed being ridiculed. Opposition leaders especially Dr. Mahathir & Co. have been talking about all these ‘scandalous and contentious crimes’ committed by people at the top especially Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak.

They go around the nation hyping up foreign reports which is actually originated by them and their agents and incessantly demonise Prime Minister Najib of being a “Criminal, committing theft, criminal breach of trust and money laundering”.

Dr Mahathir’s agents made these reports to the various law enforcement agencies all over the world and worked in cahoot with Neo Con Jewish controlled media to expand these stories.

The stories are compounded with the sinister use of “1MDB linked funds” and continuously in vain throw in as if the reports already made are being actively investigated as real crimes.

The fact is that there is no substantive evidence anywhere to make it abundantly clear that actually crimes have been committed as it have been portrayed. Most interestingly, every thing had been politically motivated instead.

A good example is the United States Department of Justice, first announced by then US Attorney General Loretta Lynch in July 2016. A repeat announcement was made exactly a year later.

However, with all of the might of United States law enforcement apparatus and clout, till present dat there have been no act to bring the ‘criminals’ to justice which reflect the nature “theft, criminal breach of trust and money laundering”.

In general, Opposition leaders are just playing politics and the average Malaysians especially the younger segment of society don’t find politics interesting at all.

On the other hand, the Government under Prime Minister Najib is effectively been seen as doing work and moving the nation forward.

The Gross National Income has grown by more than 50% since Prime Minister Najib came into office more than eight years ago. More and more trade have been fostered as Prime Minister Najib made very constructive and productive relationship with world leaders, ranging from United States, China, Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, India.

Affordable housing is one of the top most agenda. Government delivery system has been improved.

The Federal Government also gave a lot of attention on infrastructure projects such as public transportation and the Pan Borneo Highway, to future boost the quality of life as well as catalyst for the economy.

Employment rate is high with unemployment rate is slightly over 3%. More and more opportunities have been created for youths and the younger Malaysian segments. Infact, Prime Minister Najib is encouraging for more innovative and creative economy and entrepreneurism amongst the Malaysian’s future.

NST story:

 

(Update) Entrepreneurship is the way to go – PM

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak speaks during the Bicara Santai Malam Gala Varsity Entrepreneurship Skills and Talents (VEST) 2017 at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia in Bangi. Pic by MOHAMAD SHAHRIL BADRI SAALI.

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak wants university students to delve into the possibilities of entrepreneurial endeavours instead of becoming reliant on the government to provide job opportunities.

Najib said the field of entrepreneurship which particularly involves e-commerce sector is among the country’s sources of wealth, and called on youths to challenge themselves by jumping into the business foray.

“I want a shift in our mentality. I do not want for us to think that, upon graduation, we can only work for the government,” Najib said during a question and answer session at the Varsity Entrepreneurship Skills And Talents (VEST) competition finale last night

He said the entrepreneurship offers vast opportunities in creating a better life and future.

“We must challenge ourselves to think of the possibilities offered in the field of entrepreneurship, which can guarantee us a meaningful future.

“Students should look for opportunities to be the one who does the hiring, rather than is hired for a basic salary. They should not be waiting to be hired, and instead, explore the possibilities to be their own boss.”

Najib said the contemporary idea of entrepreneurship is relevant for the younger generation who need not conform to a rigid structure whether in life or work.

“There is no fixed structure in their lives. I remember visiting my child at Georgetown University, and I was surprised that there were no books in sight in the hostel room.

“But my child told me not to worry because even though there were no books in sight it didn’t mean that they weren’t studying. The university students were all wired and they do their revision online.”

Najib then advised parents to continue to support their children as “facilitators in their lives”.

When asked, Najib it was important to him keep a healthy balance between his work as the prime minister and at home.

“We need to find a way to find balance in everything that we do. Be it work, leisure and religion, that is important if we want to succeed. We must also keep learning and widen our knowledge because only with that we are able to be on par with our counterparts.

“We must be competent, and not be caught off-guard when faced by problems or our counterparts. Otherwise, we would be left behind.”

Najib later witnessed the prize presentation award to Vest participants.

The finale was held at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) saw three winners from Universiti Teknologi Petronas (first prize), University Pertanian Malaysia (second prize) and UKM (third place).

Each winner was awarded RM25,000, RM15,000 and RM10,000 cash respectively.

*********************

The rationalisation subsidy saw the public started paying for market driven price for petrol and diesel, which have seen been stabilised. The savings provided more targeted subsistence for the category 40 percentile lowest (B40).

In general, majority of Malaysians are more taken in by the goodies brought forth and how the nation has transformed and their quality of life alleviated versus non productive politics.

Certainly, ‘Kleptocracy’ is a factor far too detached for majority of them to decide for their future amidst the Opposition leaders themselves are plagued being the real Kleptocrats themselves.

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng now facing trial for corrupt practices and persons closely linked to Sabah Opposition Leader Shafie Apdal are under active MACC scrutiny

Dr Mahathir’s obsession of ousting Prime Minister Najib resulted him living in vacuum when he convenient discount the perception of many older Malaysians about him, his cronyism and dictatorial practices and how his family are super wealthy.

It is pathetic to see the Statesman being reduced into a hypocrite and resorted to gutter politics, as less and less Malaysians especially the younger ones are willing to listen to his Klepeto-basi stories.

 


Black Mahathir

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UMNO should be thankful as of late everything in contact with Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad would end in a fate fate of disdain, if not chaos and eventually destruction.

Dr. Mahathir own party purposely created for him by the group of his blind loyalists, UMNO rejects and those who are stupid enough to be sucked into his compounded compulsion of lies and manipulations, are in self destruct mode.

NST story:

PPBM Parit divisional committee chief Rosli Ali (left) today announced that he was leaving the party for his dissatisfation with the state leadership. Pix by Effendy Rashid

IPOH: Deep cracks emerged today in Perak Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) with the departure of a divisional leader, resignation from party posts and exit of other party members.

PPBM Parit divisional committee chief Rosli Ali today announced that he was leaving the party for his dissatisfation with the state leadership.

PPBM Kuala Kangsar divisional committee chief Bul Hayati Baheran relinquished his post due to interference of “invisible hands” in party affairs.

About 200 members from Parit were leaving the party and another 40 from Kuala Kangsar had given up their posts in their division.

Rosli said he was unhappy with the state party leadership as there was lack of teamwork.

“There is no clear direction of what we are expected to do.”

He said accusations hurled among some leaders only made matters worse.

“So, I decided to leave the party due to my unhappiness with the current situation.

“To win the next general election, we need a strong leadership but it seems that some are more interested in positions than working together to ensure victory.

“We want to win but I feel like we are fighting a lost cause,” he told a press conference here

Rosli said he was frustrated with the politics of some of the opposition leaders who were more inclined towards making accusations including against the government rather than practising “mature” politics.

Bul Hayati said he would remain as a party member despite stepping down from his post.

“It seems that there are people who are only keen to obtain positions, and this has affected us in the division.

“With my resignation, the committee members and those running the party machinery, about 40 of them no longer hold their positions. Whatever happens after this is a different matter,” he said.

Rosli and Bul Hayati claimed that other divisions such as Larut and Lumut were also facing issues, but they would not speak on their behalf.

Last month, PPBM vice-president and Gopeng divisional committee chief Datuk Hamidah Osman announced her departure, citing dissatisfaction over the state leadership and feud with youth chief Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman.

Others had also relinquished their posts as a show of protest due to the conflict in the state, including Batu Gajah divisional women’s wing chief Zulaiha Sidiq and her counterpart in Gopeng, Aflatuniah Md Norani.

*****************

This came in a series of very disappointed PPBM leaders abandoning the party for the utter practice of “Nepotism, favouritism and undemocratic”.

NST story:

Datuk Hamidah Osman said today she quit Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) for its weak leadership which could not take her criticism. (File pix)

IPOH: Datuk Hamidah Osman said today she quit Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) for its weak leadership which could not take her criticism.

The former PPBM vice-president said her decision was also triggered by unwarranted criticisms against her by its youth wing chief Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman.

Hamidah said she was criticised for voicing out opinion and was even being muted for expressing her dissatisfaction to the party leadership.

“I expressed my views for the betterment of the party. I was dissapointed with the selection process for state chairman’s post, which I felt would not help in ensuring the party’s success in Perak.

“Instead, I was labelled as greedy and being accused of eyeing the post for myself when I was already the vice-president.

“The struggle and work for the party was never easy and demanded high commitment, and I was one of those who lay the foundation here (Perak).

“It was an honour to serve in PPBM that would be nothing without (PPBM chairman) Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad,” she said when contacted.

Hamidah, who was also PPBM Gopeng divisional committee chief, said accusations hurled against her by Syed Saddiq had made her feel bitter.

“He had accused me of being a traitor and demanded that I leave the party.

“For someone whom I regard as a son, that was uncalled for. Despite this, nothing was done to curb this culture brought by Syed Saddiq.

“I had to make a difficult decision to leave the party for the good of everyone,” she said.

On her future, she said she intended to rest from politics and had yet to make any plans on her next move.

Meanwhile, Perak PPBM chairman Ahmad Faizal Azumu said Hamidah’s departure would not affect preparations for the next general elections.

“I have instructed the Gopeng deputy chief to call for its committee meeting, which they did on Sunday.

“They have also suggested a list of candidates to the top leadership. Pakatan Harapan will decide on it,” he said when contacted.

****************

Dr. Mahathir, now anointed as the Opposition pact Chairman of Pakatan Harapan and head de facto Chinese Chauvinist DAP puppet to break up the Malays so that the Opposition can rise to power.

The Chinese Chauvinist DAP cannot do it alone as they have reached the near saturated level of their ability to win Parliamentary seats and their previous puppet Anwar Ibrahim is now a convict serving a sexually criminal sentence.

The Chinese Chauvinist lost the Malay willing partner and machinery to canvass for Malay votes when PAS broke away from Pakatan Rakyat and out comes the dissent Amanah, which practically has no formidable machinery nor support.

Of course out of the obsession to throw Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak out, Dr. Mahathir came conveniently desperate to throwing himself and other UMNO rejects to the feet of Chinese Chauvinist DAP Emperorissimo Lim Kit Siang.

Dr. Mahathir’s Pakatan Harapan partner in Sabah Warisan Party is in shambles with nine persons which include President Dato’ Seri Mohd. Shafie Apdal and Vice President Peter Anthony arrested.

It is for MACC investigations of  the graft for RM1.5b worth of projects from the RM7.5b allocated by the Ministry then led by Shafie.

NST story:

Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal has been detained by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) over its probe on mishandling of federal funds for Sabah’s rural development project. Pic by NSTP/EDMUND SAMUNTING

KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan Sabah (Warisan) president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal has been detained to assist the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) investigations over mishandling of federal funds.

The former Rural and Regional Development (KKLW) Minister was detained at 9pm after he turned up at the commission’s office at the state Federal Administrative Complex, here.

MACC deputy commissioner (operation) Datuk Seri Azam Baki confirmed this without elaborating further.

Shafie is expected to be remanded tomorrow together with another Warisan member, a local engineer, who a source with the MACC said was detained at 2.45pm.

Clad in a white button-down shirt, the Semporna member of parliament had earlier arrived at the complex at 5.15pm.

He was accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Shuryani Shuaib, Warisan vice-president Peter Anthony, Warisan secretary-general Loretto Padua Jr, and counsel Martin Tommy.

Also present were Warisan deputy president Darell Leiking, Warisan Wira chief Datuk Mohd Azis Jamman and party members.

Shafie was the 11th individual detained by graftbusters after giving his statement to facilitate MACC ongoing probe over mishandling of federal government funds under the KKLW.

The allocation was meant for rural development projects in the state between 2009 and 2015, during when Shafie was the minister.

The probe revolves around 70 projects pertaining roads as well as water and electricity supply in the Sabah interior.

When asked how he was feeling, Shafie when met at MACC office smiled and said: “Well, we will assist (in the investigation)”.

On whether he was ready to be quizzed, Shafie’s wife responded by saying: “Of course he is ready”.

Shafie arrived in the state capital from Kuala Lumpur at about 3.30pm. He was welcomed by a horde of Warisan members at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

Speaking to reporters at a family residence at Taman Golf View here earlier, Shafie noted the commision was doing its job and he would provide the neccesary assistant as required by the law.

“So rest assured, I’m going to give my full support to MACC to get what they actually wanted to investigate.

“What’s important, we are not going to obstruct any law. I know they (graftbusters) are just doing their job,” he said.

Last week, Warisan vice-president Junz Wong had said deputy president Darell Leiking would lead the party’s administration in Shafie’s absence.

Since Oct 5, MACC has so far remanded nine individuals, including Warisan and Umno leaders, in Sabah and former deputy undersecretary (infrastructure) of KKLW, Norhartaty Rahmat, in Putrajaya.

Among those remanded in Sabah were Shafie’s two younger brothers – Silam Umno chief cum Lahad Datu assemblyman Datuk Mohd Yusof Apdal and businessman Hamid Apdal.

“Whatever it is, they have their ways and means in doing things. I know thr MACC will do their work, but I hope it will be done properly,” he added.

Others who were remanded include Hamid’s son-in-law Manzur Hussein Alam Khan; Warisan vice-president Datuk Peter Anthony; Warisan Youth chief Datuk Mohd Azis Jamman; Tenom Umno Youth chief Jamawi Jaafar; Tawau Umno Youth chief Ariffin Kassim; and a local businessman Yu Sin Kong.

Yusof is still under remand until Saturday while others have been realeased on MACC bail.

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Since Dr. Mahathir working hand-in-hand with arch nemesis of half a century Lim Kit Siang, made known openly on 8 March 2016 upon the launch of ‘Deklarasi Rakyat’, some of DAP leaders and grassroots are very uncomfortable with this arrangement.

DAP middle level leaders and members have started to openly attack the Central Leadership for this unholy partnership with their arch enemy.

On top of this,


Maha-Hina

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Perbuatan Pengerusi Pakatan Harapan Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad menghina Perdana Menteri Dato’ Seri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak sebagai “Berasal dari Bugis Lanun” dalam keghairan obsessi menjatuhkan beliau, menerima tamparan hebat.

Najib Presiden Indonesia Jusuf Kalla, seorang berasal dari Sulawesi berketurunan Bugis menyifatkan ungakapan Dr. Mahathir itu “Menghina masyarakat keturunan Bugis”.

Sebelum itu, masyarakat Malaysia keturunan Bugis menyatakan kemarahan mereka kerana keceluparan mulut Dr. Mahathir ini dalam tindakan menjatuhkan Perdana Menteri Najib, melalui strategi menghasut dan menanam kebencian.

Berita Harian:

Isnin, 16 Oktober 2017 | 10:43pm

CARI
“”
KENYATAAN Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed yang melabel Bugis sebagai lanun, menyinggung perasaan masyarakat Bugis.

’Tun M perlu bertaubat’

JOHOR BAHRU: Kenyataan Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed yang melabel Bugis sebagai lanun, menyinggung perasaan masyarakat Bugis di negara ini, dan dianggap kenyataan yang menghina serta rasis.

Setiausaha Agung Persatuan Bugis Johor, Md Sah Daeng Matatah, berkata masyarakat Melayu Bugis berada di seluruh negara ini, termasuk keturunan dan berhubung kait dengan keluarga diraja Johor, Selangor, Perak, Terengganu, Kelantan dan Kedah.

“Tidak patut Tun Mahathir cakap begitu. Itu dah rasis. Berapa ramai orang Melayu Bugis di sini? Sultan Melayu ramai dari keturunan Bugis di Johor, Selangor, Perak, Kelantan dan ramai lagi.

“Orang Bugis bukan lanun. Itu (lanun) digelar oleh orang putih. Kita (Bugis) adalah pahlawan dan ini juga disebut dalam sejarah,” katanya ketika dihubungi BH.

Beliau berkata demikian mengulas ucapan Mahathir pada himpunan pembangkang di Padang Timur, Petaling Jaya pada Sabtu lalu, yang menyebut bahawa Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Razak, mungkin berasal dari lanun Bugis, yang sesat ke Malaysia dan memintanya balik ke tempat asalnya.

Md Sah berkata, sebagai orang yang sudah berusia, Mahathir tak sepatutnya bercakap sedemikian dan menghina orang lain.

“Jangan hina orang Bugis. Tak patut dia cakap seperti itu. Dia sepatutnya jaga mulut.

“Patutnya sebagai orang yang sudah tua, dia kerap pergi ke masjid, sepatutnya dia bertaubat di hujung usia ini,” katanya.

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Jelas reaksi masyarakat rata-rata demanding jelek seorang Negarawan yang tergamak untuk mengeluarkan kata-kata demikian, disamping “Perdana Menteri penyangak, penyamun, pencuri” semata-mata untuk meningkatan kebencian rakyat.

Dalam pada itu, Dr. Mahathir dengan angkuhnya enggan meminta maaf kepada masyarakat keturunan Bugis, samada di Malaysia atau Indonesia kerana keceluparan memuncak itu.

Astro Awani:

Dakwaan hina Bugis: ‘Saya tidak akan minta maaf’ -Tun Mahathir

Adie Sufian Zulkefli, Astro Awani | “Diterbitkan Oktober 21, 2017 16:17 MYT

“Facebook”“Twitter”“Email”“Google”“whatsapp

“Dakwaan

Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad yang bertegas bahawa beliau tidak akan membuat sebarang permohonan maaf secara terbuka ekoran kenyataannya yang dianggap menghina masyarakat Bugis.

ALOR SETAR: “Saya tidak akan mohon maaf dan untuk apa saya perlu lakukan.”

Demikian reaksi Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad yang bertegas bahawa beliau tidak akan membuat sebarang permohonan maaf secara terbuka ekoran kenyataannya yang dianggap menghina masyarakat Bugis.

Dr Mahathir juga mempertahankan ucapan beliau ketika perhimpunan haram di Selangor baru-baru ini bahawa hanya ditujukan kepada pemimpin tertentu.”Pahlawan Bugis ni bukanlah pencuri, tapi ini pahlawan Bugis pencuri.

“Jadi apa salahnya saya kata dia pencuri. Saya bukan kata semua orang Bugis pencuri. Saya tak perlu minta maaf pasai saya tak kata benda tu,” katanya kepada pemberita pada dalam sidang akhbar selepas Majlis Perasmian Konvensyen Nasional 2017 Parti Amanah Negara di sini, siang tadi.

Dr Mahathir semasa berucap dalam perhimpunan haram Pakatan Harapan diketuai DAP di Padang Timur, Petaling Jaya pada Sabtu lalu menyebut tentang pemimpin tertentu yang mungkin berasal daripada lanun Bugis yang sesat ke Malaysia dan memintanya balik ke Bugis.

Ekoran kenyataannya itu, pelbagai pihak termasuk yang mewakili masyarakat etnik tersebut mendesak Dr Mahathir supaya membuat permohonan maaf secara terbuka dan menarik balik kata-katanya..

Terbaharu, Duta Besar Malaysia ke Indonesia, Datuk Seri Zahrain Mohamed Hashim berkata, kenyataan Dr Mahathir yang menghina keturunan tersebut telah menyebabkan Perhimpunan Pemuda Bugis Makasar Indonesia (PPBMI) mengancam untuk mengadakan demonstrasi di Kedutaan Besar Malaysia di Indonesia jika Pengerusi Pakatan Harapan itu tidak memohon maaf.

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Ini antara tanda jelas menunjukkan Dr. Mahathir dan Pakatan Harapan terdesak kerana mereka tidak mampu meyakinkan rakyat untuk menyokong pakatan Pembangkang.

Hakikatnya rata-rata rakyat sedar pakatan Pembangkang yang sebenarnya tidur-sebantal-mimpi-lain-lain ini tiada plan dan rancangan program pembangunan untuk rakyat sekiranya menang selepas PRU14.

Dalam pada itu, Dr. Mahathir juga menyerang dan menghina badan pencegah jenayah SPRM kerana menahan Presiden Parti Warisan Dato’ Seri Shafie Apdal dan lapan lagi berkenaan siasatan atas skandal penyelewangan dan amalan rasuah jumlah RM1.5b.

Malaysian Insight:

Penahanan Shafie arahan Najib, kata Dr Mahathir


Dikemaskini satu hari yang lalu · Diterbitkan pada 20 Oct 2017 6:24PM ·0 komen

“Penahanan
Dr Mahathir berkata ia untuk melumpuhkan Parti Warisan dengan menangkap Shafie Apdal dan menakutkan penyokongnya. – Gambar fail The Malaysian Insight, 20 Oktober, 2017.

PENAHANAN serta siasatan terhadap Presiden Parti Warisan Shafie Apdal adalah arahan Perdana Menteri Najib Razak dan ia bertujuan untuk melemahkan parti pembangkang, kata Pengerusi Pakatan Harapan Dr Mahathir Mohamad hari ini.

”Kali ini, (Perdana Menteri) Najib mengarah SPRM menangkap pemimpin-pemimpin parti lawan (Warisan) di Sabah.

”Matlamatnya ialah untuk melumpuhkan Warisan dengan menangkap Shafie Apdal dan menakutkan penyokongnya,” kata bekas perdana menteri itu dalam blognya hari ini.

Dr Mahathir yang juga Pengerusi Bersatu berkata ini adalah sebahagian daripada usaha Najib untuk “menipu” dalam pilihan raya.

Shafie ditahan malam tadi dan ditahan semula untuk 4 hari sebagai sebahagian daripada siasatan Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (SPRM) terhadap penyelewengan RM1.5 juta dalam dana persekutuan bagi projek pembangunan luar bandar di Sabah dari 2009 hingga 2015.

Ketika itu, shafie merupakan Menteri Pembangunan Luar Bandar dan Wilayah sebelum dipecat daripada kerajaan oleh Najib.

Beberapa pemimpin Warisan juga ditahan untuk siasatan.

Dr Mahathir mendakwa pegawai kerajaan di pelbagai agensi termasuk SPRM diugut untuk “melaksanakan arahan Najib” atau diturun pangkat, ditukar ke jawatan lain yang lebih rendah, dimansuh hak pencen dan bermacam lagi.

Beliau menggesa penjawat awam agar tidak takut untuk menolak arahan tersebut.

Kata Dr Mahathir lagi, jika PH menang dalam Pilihan Raya Umum Ke-14 dan mengambil alih Putrajaya, kerajaan PH akan akan mengembalikan semula apa sahaja yang penjawat awam hilang kerana enggan mematuhi arahan tersebut.

”Kami berjanji jika kakitangan kerajaan yang mengurus PRU diugut dan didera oleh Najib dan kehilangan gaji, pangkat atau jawatan, kami akan pulih balik mereka dan pendapatan mereka. Mereka akan kembali pegang jawatan yang telah dilucut dari mereka. Demikian juga mereka yang memberi maklumat kepada kami akan salah cara dan penipuan Najib. Kami akan selamatkan mereka,” kata Dr Mahathir. – 20 Oktober, 2017.

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Ianya dari RM7.5b  dari peruntukan Kerajaan Persekutuan bagi program menaik taraf kehidupan rakyat Sabah terurtama diluar bandar dan pendalaman, melalui Kementerian Kemajuan Luar Bandar dan Wilayah (KKLW) antara 2009-2015.

Shafie, yang juga mengetuai rakankongsi Pakatan Harapan di Sabah merupakan Menteri KKLW sebelum dipecat dalam rombakan Kabinet 2015.

Dr. Mahathir sebagai Pengerusi Pakatan Harapan wajar mengimbau pembongkaran PKR mengenai dakwaan keatas penyelewengan program Bekalan Elektrik Luar Bandar (BELB) bawah KKLW semasa dibawah Shafie sebagai Menteri.

Najib Presiden PKR Tian Chua dalam sidang akhbar di Parlimen ini menyebut mereka yang mendapat kontrak ‘rundingan terus’ “Dengan cara pembahagian kontrak yang tidak telus dan tidak adil kupada ironi-kroni Shafie”.

Ianya juga didakwa harga kontrak dinaikkan sehingga 200% berbanding kos.

Sumber di Sabah melaporkan sebahagian dari projek-projek yang tersenarai bawah  skandal dan penyelewengan RM1.5b yang sedang disiasat itu terbengkalai.

Kes-kes seperti di Sabah ini, termasuk Ketua Menteri Pulau Pinang Lim Guan Eng yang sedang menghadapi tuduhan atas amalan jenayah rasuah merupakan ‘Kleptokrat’ sebenar kerana mereka adalah berkuasa dan mengamalkan jenayah mencuri dari peruntukan.

Dr. Mahathir sekali lagi memaparkan sifat Maha-Hipokrit beliau semata-mata agenda obsessi politik untuk menajatuhkan Perdana Menteri Najib walaupun telah terbukti ‘Kleptokrat’ sebenar ujud antara rakan-kongsi pakatán Pembangkang yang beliau terajui.

Sifat Maha-Hipokrit ini yang ditambah kehadiran berbohong, memfitnah, menghasut dan menggelarkan orang dan menggunakan ‘nama kesat’ lebih mengkukuhkan akibat agenda obsessi politik peribadi yang makin kecundang dan terdesak.

Malaysian Insight:

Dr Mahathir and his Malaysian dilemma


Low Han ShaunChan Kok LeongMuzliza Mustafa

Dr Mahathir and his Malaysian dilemma
Dr Mahathir Mohamad says Malays of this generation face a different dilemma from his time – the leader and party they had counted on have failed them. – The Malaysian Insight pic by Nazir Sufari, April 8, 2017.

DR Mahathir Mohamad is running out of time and he knows it. He knows that he has only one shot of persuading the Malays to turn their backs on Umno and Najib Razak.

So much to do and so little time – that is the dilemma of the man who made the Malay dilemma part of the Malaysian conversation for more than 40 years.

‎In an interview, the 92-year-old founder of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) told The Malaysian Insight: “My dilemma is that I’m old, I’m 90-plus and I don’t have much time. But all things take time… But for as long as I am alive, I will be a thorn in the flesh of other people. I don’t care.”

The former Umno president said he had been encouraged by the good turnout at political rallies, believing that they were an indication of a restive spirit among voters towards the Najib administration. He noted that even in Umno strongholds, he had been welcomed warmly.

Now he wants this support at the ceramah to turn into support at the ballot box. He understands that Malaysians may be afraid to show their support openly for Pakatan Harapan for fear of being harrassed and intimidated by government agencies.

But he hopes that this fear would dissipate once they are in the voting booth.

In 1970, Dr Mahathir wrote the book, the Malay Dilemma. It was a controversial book for its time and the main assumption was that the Malays were subjugated in their own land and needed a form of affirmative action to correct the economic imbalance.

Today’s generation of Malays face a different dilemma, he said.

“They know that the party which was supposed to look after them has become a liability, but they can’t get rid of this party because they have elected a person who has been able to bend the laws, to disregard the laws, and make sure of personal loyalties to him. So much so, he can get away with a lot of things.”

Below are excerpts of the interview:

Q: How different is this battle against Najib from the ones against Tunku and Pak L‎ah?

‎Dr Mahathir: This man (Najib) has got full control over Umno. They will not go against him. He has the inspector-general of police and the attorney-general working for him and protecting him.

He is, in fact, a dictator. Tunku was not a dictator. He was popularly elected and he stepped down when he felt that he was not popular any more. Abdullah realised that he was not very popular with Umno itself and he decided on his own to step down.

But Najib, he will never step down.

Q: Some people say you are to blame for weakening some of the institutions and centralising powers within the prime minister’s office. What do you say to that?

Dr Mahathir: Lots of things were said about me and my administration, which were cooked up by people who want me out of the way. They have to demonise me, otherwise, I will be there all the time, supported by the people.

So they must paint a bad picture of me, to make me seem like a dictator and all that. If I am a dictator, then a lot of people will probably end up inside (prison), but I allowed them to go through courts. They had demonstrations against me every week.

Because that is the way of democracy and I never sued anybody. They called me all sorts of names but I never sued them. In politics, of course, people will call you nasty names. That is normal.

Q: A survey sighted by TMI says that your popularity among Malay voters is wavering because you are working with DAP now.

Dr Mahathir: Well we have fixed a mindset for these people who are now in Umno and told them that DAP is a Chinese party and they are the devil. It is difficult to erase that impression.

So when I was seen with (Lim) Kit Siang, they thought I was with the devil, but that devil was created by me in order to win the elections.

If you tell people that Kit Siang is a good man and all that, then he will win and we cannot allow him to win. We had to call him a devil and he is a Chinese chauvinist and all kinds of things, but actually he is not.

Between MCA and DAP, MCA sings their songs in Chinese, conducts their meetings in Chinese, but DAP conducts their meeting in the national language and they sing their song in the national language.

So DAP is more Malaysian than MCA. MCA now, as you know, has got relations with the communist party of China, not DAP.

Q: BN is saying that you are doing this so that Mukhriz (Mahathir) will become PM one day.

Dr Mahathir: If I wanted to do things for my son, I could have made him deputy prime minister when I was prime minister. But I don’t even allow my son to join the party.

My son Mokhzani was appointed by Hishammuddin (Hussein) as a treasurer of the Youth, not because of me, because he appears to know something about accounts.

My son Mirzan is nowhere to be seen in the party or anywhere, and my daughter Marina was against me during my time as prime minister.

But you see Najib, the wedding of his daughter consumed millions of dollars.

So you see he favours his children, so did Abdullah Badawi. I have never favoured my children.

Q: But your son Mukhriz is now holding one of the top positions in Bersatu?

Dr Mahathir: Mukhriz built up his reputation in Kedah and he won back Kedah from PAS. It was his leadership. And it was not because of me.

After I stepped down, if I stopped him from becoming a leader it is not fair to him. I am not trying to preserve my good reputation at his expense, I did that when I was prime minister, but I can’t do that now.

I am still trying to preserve my image of not going for nepotism and all that. If Mukhriz succeeds, it is by his hard work.

Q: If the opposition is not successful in replacing BN in the next election, what will Dr Mahathir do?

Dr Mahathir: I will accept that I would die and leave all these things to other people. That is the normal thing to happen. You are old and you die. I’m sure lots of people are wishing that I am dead now.

But for as long as I am alive, I will be a thorn in the flesh of other people, I don’t care. – April 8, 2017.

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Hakikatnya, Negarawan yang suatu masa dahulu disanjung majoriti rakyat terutama dikalangan orang Melayu telah menjadi neorang politikus Maha-Hina.


The defining address

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HRH Paduka Seri Sultan Perak Tuanku Sultan Nazrin Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Shah urged all Malaysians to master the Bahasa Melayu, the national language, as a tool to foster unity and muhibbah.

NST story:

Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah and the Raja Permaisuri of Perak, Tuanku Zara Salim arrives at SMJK Sam Tet’s excellence awards ceremony today. Pix by Muhaizan Yahya

IPOH: Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah said it was imperative for all Malaysians to be proficient in the national language to show their love and loyalty for the country.

He said the ability to communicate among the multi-racial people is a pre-condition for any possible interaction and that language is a medium that enables human relationship to grow closer.

The future of the country depends on the mutual understanding and harmony among the multiracial community, Sultan Nazrin said.

In the context of the education system, he said vernacular schools must acknowledge efforts by government by providing equal opportunities and open education policy by producing students with competency in the usage of national language.

“Vernacular schools must show their commitment towards the government and the people in this country, and take responsibility to ensure that their students are able to master the language in the same proficiency level, if not better than those who attend national schools.

“Efforts to improve the competency of Bahasa Malaysia among students at the vernacular schools must be seen and accepted as a challenge. (And) this achievement in ensuring this must be made the main index for the schools’ accomplishment,” he said in his speech in his speech at SMJK Sam Tet’s excellence awards ceremony today.

He said the success of improving the students’ competency in the national language usage would help foster a nation with united society and minimise any uneasiness among the people, particularly towards vernacular schools.

“The founders of the country, when establishing the National Education Policy and the Razak Report (Malayan educational proposal), had introduced a school education system known as the national school (sekolah kebangsaan).

“This was based on the premises that the school is the best platform to unite people from different backgrounds and for them to get know each other, understand and nurture mutual respect among them, thus inculcating harmonious relations since the tender age.

“However, today’s dynamic have presented itself new challenges which calls for adjustments. Vernacular schools are allowed to continue operating. The open policy adapted by the government, must be given due appreciation by proving that fostering of unity can still be achieved through vernacular schools.

“The national language is the identity of a nation. It would be embarrassing and ironic if someone with Malaysian citizenship, and enjoys all the benefits and privileges of a citizen, but could not understand, speak, write and read in the language,” he said.

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Mother of All Budget Speeches

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Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak delivered his best Budget Speech after the ninth time and plenty of goodies for everyone in the proposedRM280.5billion budget, be it the B40, M40, U20, the business community, development and infrastructure projects, expecting mums, civil servants and even students.

UCAPAN BAJET 2018

Friday October 27th, 2017Blog, Featured Articles, Speeches

“MEMAKMUR EKONOMI YANG INKLUSIF,

MENGIMBANG KEUNGGULAN DUNIAWI DAN UKHRAWI,

DEMI MENSEJAHTERA KEHIDUPAN RAKYAT,

MENUJU ASPIRASI TN50”

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

Saya mohon mencadangkan supaya Rang Undang-undang bertajuk “Suatu Akta bagi menggunakan sejumlah wang daripada Kumpulan Wang Disatukan untuk perkhidmatan bagi tahun 2018 dan bagi memperuntukkan wang itu untuk perkhidmatan bagi tahun itu” dibaca bagi kali kedua.

Bismillah-Hir-Rahma-Nir-Rahim

1.          Sesungguhnya Kami Bernaik Saksi Bahawa, Tiada Tuhan yang Selayaknya Disembah Melainkan Allah yakni Dia, serta para MalaikatNya, yang berSelawat ke atas Nabi Junjungan. Seraya,… diseru ke atas orang-orang yang beriman mengucapkan; Allahumma Solli Ala Saidina Muhammad, Wa a’la A-li Saidina Muhammad.

2.          Begitu juga kepada Tuan Yang Dipertua, Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat, Tuan-Tuan dan Puan-Puan serta seluruh Rakyat Malaysia Sekalian, dari penjuru Utara Perlis, hingga ke Penghujung Benua Asia di Tanjung Piai, membawa nun jauh di Sabah, Negeri di Bawah Bayu dan di Sarawak, Bumi Kenyalang,  diucapkan Salam Sejahtera,… Salam Negaraku,… dan Salam 1Malaysia.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

3.          Pastinya pada tahun lalu, kita maklum tentang ramai yang telah meneka-neka bahawa,… Bajet 2017 itu adalah Bajet Pilihanraya.

4.          Memanglah,… tidak dinafikan,… kerana sekian banyak inisiatif dan sekian banyak peruntukan, telah diumumkan demi keperluan rakyat serta kepentingan negara. Namun nampaknya,… ramalan itu setakat tahun lepas,… menjadi hampa dan tidak benar belaka.

5.          Lalunya,… Tuan Yang Dipertua, kalau minggu lalu, kawan-kawan daripada masyarakat India baru saja menyambut perayaan cahaya Deepavali,… kita ucapkan sekali lagi bersama-sama Deepavali Val-thu-kal,…

Maka,… pada Jumaat penghulu segala hari ini, seperti para cerdik pandai juga menyatakan boleh disambut sebagai Hari Lebaran yang riang dan ceria.

6.          Jadinya,… saya mengajak seluruh rakyat Malaysia bersama-sama untuk merayakan imbuhan-imbuhan, buah-buah tangan dan pemberian-pemberian yang akan dibentang-bentang dan dihidang-hidang sepanjang persembahan Bajet ini. Dengan satu syarat,…

Syaratnya apa?… aaa… syaratnya, saya nak khabor pada semua,… bak kata orang tempat saya di Pekan,… maaf cakaplah, kalau boleh, moleklah mendengor,… bukannya berdengkor,… dari mula, sampeilah ke penghujung ucapan.

7.          Maksud saya,… berdiri saya pada petang Jumaat yang mulia bertarikh 27 Oktober ini, bersamaan dengan 7 haribulan Safar 1439 Hijriah, adalah, tidak lain dan tidak bukan, untuk membawa khabar-khabar yang lebih riang dan gembira, yang bakal menguntum serta menyimpul senyum-senyuman di wajah semua.

8.          Yang ter-paling mustahak adalah untuk dinikmati oleh seluruh rakyat Malaysia tercinta, tidak kira apa jua kaum,… apa jua bangsa,… dan apa jua latar keturunan.

9.          Tuan Yang Dipertua, ternyata, yang ditunggu-tunggu, buahnya pun baru saja masak dan baru saja meranum,… hatta, kalau tidak dipetik pun pada petang yang berbahagia ini, ia akan tetap gugur, dan akan tetap luruh, satu persatu, sebagai sebahagian rezeki yang dilimpahi rendang dan merimbunnya Pepohon Malaysia.

10.      Jadinya, marilah kita sama-sama menghayati dan meneliti dahulu,… apa yang akan saya, bagi pihak Kerajaan ingin sajikan, jika tidak,… bagi mereka yang terburu-buru, sebagai memetik kata ulamak dan cerdik pandai,… sesungguhnya tergolonglah dalam kumpulan orang-orang yang merugi.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

11.      Sayang seribu kali sayang,… dalam pada kita ingin membina peradaban santun susila di antara satu sama lain, sampai hati,… dan,… tergamak sungguh ‘Orang Itu’ memaki,… mencerca,… etnik bangsa dari keturunan Bugis.

Tapi,… tak mengapalah,… apa yang penting,… kita wajar terus Berjiwa Besar, bak kata seloka dalam loghat Utara:

Orang Kedah semua baik-baik dan ramah-ramah,

Cuma, sorang dua sajaa, yang mudah lupa diri,

Kerajaan BN ini ikhlas, kerja untuk negara dan ummah,

Ni dia Bajet yang kita semua dok nanti-nanti.

PRESTASI DAN CABARAN EKONOMI
Tuan Yang Dipertua serta Rakyat Malaysia sekalian,

12.      Pertama-tamanya, kita wajib merafakkan rasa syukur setinggi-tingginya ke hadrat Allah S.W.T kerana ekonomi negara terus berkembang dengan PO-SI-TIF.

13.      Pada separuh tahun pertama 2017, ia mencatatkan satu pertumbuhan yang sungguh memberangsangkan pada kadar 5.7 peratus.

14.      Makanya, janganlah mudah termakan dengan tipu daya serta dakyah yang tidak henti-henti terutamanya di media sosial,… oleh pelbagai pihak yang tidak bertanggungjawab bahawa kononnya,… Bank Dunia telah mengeluarkan laporan-laporan negatif tertentu terhadap ekonomi negara kita.

15.      Hakikatnya, perkara itu adalah tidak benar sama sekali,… kerana realitinya baru saja tiga minggu lepas, pihak Bank Dunia telah membuat semakan yang lazim, merangkumi Asia Timur dan Pasifik.

16.      Hasil daripada semakan itu,… sekali lagi,… yang ter-paling mustahak,… Badan Kewangan Antarabangsa Tertinggi dunia itu telah menzahirkan keyakinan terhadap prestasi ekonomi kita, dengan memberi puji-pujian kepada dasar-dasar negara, seraya menaikkan unjuran KDNK Malaysia,… daripada 4.9 kepada 5.2 peratus bagi tahun 2017. Ada bersama kita hadirin sekalian, pada petang ini, beberapa wakil daripada Bank Negara Malaysia dan World Bank.

17.      Selanjutnya, Kerajaan pula mengunjurkan ekonomi Malaysia bakal mencapai kadar pertumbuhan tahunan antara 5.2 hingga 5.7 peratus pada 2017, yakni lebih tinggi daripada unjuran pada bulan Mac lalu iaitu 4.3 hingga 4.8 peratus.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

18.      Sesungguhnya lagi, selama 60 tahun negara ini mencapai kemerdekaan, pada Bajet yang ke-59 dan kali ke-9 saya bentangkan bagi pihak Kerajaan ini, dengan penuh rasa syukur serta tawadhuk, ingin dinyatakan bahawa, sepanjang tempoh lapan tahun yang lalu, di sebalik pelbagai kerencaman dan cabaran ekonomi,… Malaysia telah mampu membuktikan, dua aspek yang amat penting dan dapatlah disimpulkan sebagai:

Pertamanya: Kita telah mencapai prestasi hubungan dagang dan diplomasi pada tahap pa-ling baik dan pa-ling matang dalam lingkungan masa serentak dengan kuasa-kuasa besar ekonomi dunia seperti China, India, Arab Saudi dan Amerika Syarikat.

Sesungguhnya, tidak pernah seumpamanya seperti ini dalam sejarah, sehinggakan the actual private investment untuk 2016 sahaja, melebihi 211 bilion ringgit. Dibandingkan pada tahun 2009, jumlah pelaburan swasta sebenar hanyalah 81 bilion ringgit.

Oleh sebab itu,… seandainya saya dan rakan-rakan anggota kabinet mengadakan lawatan rasmi ke luar negara,… janganlah sewenang-wenangnya sesiapa pun menuduh bahawa, kita hendak menggadaikan kedaulatan Tanah Air.

Hah…!!! Baru-baru ini, saya mendapat khabar berita,… katanya,… YAB Menteri Besar Selangor, merangkap Ahli Parlimen Gombak sendiri, telah pun berkunjung ke Tanah Besar China. Kita nak tanya,… YB Gombak,… Nak jual Selangor ke?

Demikianlah kata orang,… Berhati-hatilah kalau mahu meludah ke langit, takut-takut nanti,… ia jatuh setepek,… terpalit ke muka sendiri.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

Itu belum lagi dikira lawatan-lawatan ke luar negara yang dibuat oleh YB Bagan, juga YAB Ketua Menteri Pulau Pinang. Itupun kira macam mana,… kita kira macam mana, nak jual negeri juga ke..?

Keduanya:  Tuan Yang Dipertua, sejak tahun 2009, meskipun berdepan dengan pelbagai cabaran yang kebanyakannya di luar kawalan kita, seperti harga minyak dunia yang jatuh merudum, faktor geopolitik antarabangsa yang bergolak dan masih tidak menentu, akan tetapi,… Alhamdulillah, kita terus kekal mampu menguruskan kewangan negara, dengan mengamalkan tadbir urus yang cekap serta disiplin fiskal yang begitu berhemah.

Menoleh ke tahun 2009, defisit fiskal kita berada pada kadar 6.7 peratus daripada KDNK. Dengan perancangan dan perencanaan serta inisiatif yang teratur lagi sistematik, syukur kepada Allah S.W.T., defisit fiskal negara dianggar terus berkurang kepada 3 peratus pada 2017, dan kita yakin pada tahun 2018 akan menurun lagi kepada 2.8 peratus.

Impaknya sungguh jelas,… baru-baru ini, tiga agensi penarafan kredit antarabangsa yang berwibawa, telah mengekalkan kredit Malaysia pada penarafan ‘A-’ dengan prospek yang stabil.

Bayangkan,… bayangkanlah,… seandainya Kerajaan ini, tidak mengambil langkah-langkah bijak lagi proaktif untuk menguruskan perbelanjaan negara, terutamanya ketika harga minyak dunia jatuh mendadak, paras defisit fiskal dan hutang akan meningkat sekaligus menjejaskan penarafan kredit negara, kemungkinan besar kita boleh terjerumus ke kancah kegawatan ekonomi.

Sekiranya itu berlaku, ia boleh mengakibatkan kenaikan kos pinjaman peribadi dan komersial, keyakinan pelabur pun terjejas, serta mengundang ketidakstabilan pasaran kewangan.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

19.      Makanya, bagai disyair orang dulu-dulu, kalau buruk yang kita minta, maka buruklah jadinya; kerana itu,… kalau elok kita usaha dan minta, maka moleklah hasilnya.

20.      Justeru,… walau sekali apa pun cabaran, halangan dan pancaroba yang datang merintang, kita perlu terus mengekalkan momentum dan dinamika kepesatan ekonomi negara.

21.      Kerana itulah, pegangan pentadbiran Kerajaan ini sejak mula-mula saya mengambil alih tampuk kepimpinan, telah diperkenalkan Program Transformasi Negara yang inklusif, di bawah lembayung Dasar Transformasi Nasional atau DTN, yang amat menitikberatkan tentang aspek kualiti, sistem penyampaian perkhidmatan yang berkesan, khususnya, dalam merancakkan pertumbuhan ekonomi.

22.      Di bawah DTN ini juga, terkandung antara lain, Model Ekonomi Baru, yang selaras dengan Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10 dan Rancangan Malaysia Ke-11.

Tuan yang Dipertua,

23.      Maka, tidak salah lagi sejak 2009, ketika mana melihatkan keadaan sosioekonomi negara ketika itu, saya selaku Perdana Menteri telah membuat keputusan yang amat sukar, dengan meletakkan inisiatif ekonomi sebagai Fokus Utama kepada Kerajaan yang saya pimpini, sehinggakan agenda dan program Transformasi yang lain disusunatur menurut keutamaan dan dikemudiankan dahulu, termasuklah Program Transformasi Politik.

24.      Justeru, mana mungkin orang mempertikai bahawa kita tidak mempunyai polisi ekonomi yang kukuh? Ternyata, kesemua usaha yang telah diambil oleh Kerajaan sepanjang lapan tahun yang lalu, telah membuahkan hasil-hasil, antaranya:

Pertama: Sasaran 3.3 juta peluang pekerjaan baharu menjelang 2020 setakat ini, sudahpun mencapai angka 69 peratus dengan 2.26  juta pekerjaan diwujudkan;

Kedua: Pada bulan Ogos ini sahaja, eksport negara buat pertama kalinya telah mencapai antara paras tertinggi, dengan nilaian melebihi 80 bilion ringgit, dan merekodkan double digit growth; dan

Ketiga: Rizab antarabangsa terkini pula, telah mencatat 101.4 bilion dolar Amerika atau 428.7 bilion ringgit yang mampu menampung 7.5 bulan import tertangguh. Sedangkan pada tahun 1997, ketika berlakunya kegawatan ekonomi Asia, rizab negara hanyalah 21.7 bilion dolar Amerika atau bersamaan 59.1 bilion ringgit,…

Nah,… kalau rizab serendah 21.7 bilion dolar Amerika pun tidak bankrap, Itu pun, kita belum tolak 31 bilion ringgit yang entah ke mana…. apatah lagi rizab sekarang setinggi 101.4 bilion dolar Amerika.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

25.      Bukan setakat itu sahaja, melalui Laporan Penyiasatan Pendapatan Isi Rumah dan Keperluan Asas 2016, menyaksikan, kita telah meraih sekian banyak pencapaian, antaranya:

Pertama: Pendapatan per kapita rakyat daripada 27,819 ringgit pada tahun 2010, kini telah meningkat kepada 40,713 ringgit, dan dijangka mencapai 42,777 ringgit menjelang 2018;

Kedua: Pendapatan median bulanan pula, telah meningkat daripada 4,585 ringgit, pada tahun 2014 kepada 5,288 ringgit pada tahun 2016;

Ketiga: Bagi pendapatan isi rumah B40 pula, daripada tempoh 2014 hingga 2016, telah meningkat daripada 2,629 ringgit kepada 3,000 ringgit sebulan; dan

Keempat: Agihan pendapatan dalam kalangan isi rumah Malaysia terus bertambah baik dengan penurunan Pekali Gini  daripada 0.441 pada tahun 2009, kepada 0.399 pada tahun 2016, the lowest in the history of Malaysia. Ini bermakna jurang pendapatan semakin dirapatkan, dan kita menuju masyarakat yang pengagihannya lebih saksama.

PERUNTUKAN BAJET 2018

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

26.      Demi kepentingan dan kesejahteraan rakyat, maka Bajet 2018 akan memperuntukkan sejumlah 280.25 bilion ringgit, menyaksikan pertambahan peruntukan, berbanding 260.8 bilion ringgit peruntukan Bajet 2017 yang dibentangkan.

27.      Daripada jumlah tersebut, 234.25 bilion ringgit adalah bagi perbelanjaan mengurus, dan 46 bilion ringgit lagi bagi perbelanjaan pembangunan. Ini tidak termasuk simpanan luar jangka 2 bilion ringgit.

28.      Di bawah peruntukan mengurus, 79.15 bilion ringgit adalah untuk Emolumen dan 33.62 bilion ringgit untuk Perkhidmatan dan Bekalan.

29.      Manakala, sebanyak 119.82 bilion ringgit lagi, adalah untuk Pemberian dan Kenaan Bayaran Tetap. Perbelanjaan lain pula, diperuntukkan 1.08 bilion ringgit, dan 577 juta ringgit untuk pembelian aset.

30.      Di bawah peruntukan pembangunan, sektor ekonomi menerima agihan tertinggi sebanyak 26.34 bilion ringgit. Sektor sosial menerima sejumlah 11.72 bilion ringgit. Manakala, sektor keselamatan diperuntukkan 5.22 bilion ringgit, dan sektor pentadbiran am sebanyak 2.72 bilion ringgit.

31.      Bagi tahun 2018, dengan izin Allah, kita menjangkakan, kutipan hasil Kerajaan Persekutuan mencecah 239.86 bilion ringgit.

32.      Apa yang penting, Kerajaan tetap komited untuk melaksanakan langkah konsolidasi fiskal dan mempastikan kedudukan kewangan Kerajaan terus kukuh serta paras hutang kekal rendah bagi tempoh jangka sederhana dan panjang.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

33.      Pastinya semua dapat mengagak, bajet yang digubal ini adalah yang paling penting kerana, ia merupakan satu rumusan kepada prakarsa-prakarsa yang telah memacu ekonomi negara semenjak saya menjadi Perdana Menteri sebermulanya tahun 2009.

34.      Ia sebetulnya juga, menjadi antara report card utama kepada rakyat dan Kerajaan pimpinan saya, sepanjang dua penggal tempoh pentadbiran Kerajaan ini.

35.      Bahkan, ia disusun sebagai satu dokumen pelonjak kepada pembikinan sebuah negara Bangsa Malaysia untuk tempoh 30 tahun mendatang yang akan dicorakkan semula di atas kanvas yang lebih baharu berasaskan KERANGKA MAQASID SYARIAH.

36.      Dalam memperkatakan hal ini, sesungguhnya secara sedar atau tidak, sejak meraih kemerdekaan, kita begitu bertuah kerana bapa-bapa pendahulu telah menyulam manik-manik azimat Maqasid Syariah, yang mementingkan pemeliharaan 5 aspek, yakni Agama, Nyawa, Akal, Keturunan dan Harta di dalam setiap dasar dan setiap perancangan Kerajaan.

37.      Kerangka Maqasid Syariah ini, dengan jelas difirmankan oleh Allah S.W.T dalam surah Al-Mum-ta-ha-nah ayat ke-12 yang mafhumnya menyebut, tentang kepentingan menjaga kemaslahatan Ad-Dho’-ru-riyat yakni, keperluan asas yang paling utama, sesuatu yang tidak boleh tidak tanpanya, untuk kita, atau rakyat, meneruskan hidup.

38.      Manakala menerusi pengertian Surah Al-Hajj dan Hadis antaranya riwayat Ahmad,… Haa-Ji-Yat pula, berkaitan perkara yang diperlukan oleh manusia bagi memberi kemudahan kepada mereka supaya tidak berlaku kesempitan yang membawa kepada kesulitan dan kesukaran hidup serta,…

Ketiganya, keperluan kepada Tah-si-niyat hanyalah sekadar menjadi penghias, pencantik dan bersifat pengindah semata-mata, untuk kesempurnaan hidup.

39.      Makanya,… semenjak enam dekad lalu, segala usaha pentadbiran Kerajaan Barisan Nasional secara lumrahnya diilhamkan oleh Tuhan Yang Maha Mengetahui kepada pimpinan-pimpinan negara,… agar sentiasa ‘terpandu’ dengan kerangka Maqasid Syariah ini, dan dari masa hingga masa,…

Diperkuatkan lagi oleh falsafah-falsafah seperti Perlembagaan Persekutuan, Ideologi Kebangsaan Rukun Negara, prinsip Wasatiyah atau moderation, Falsafah 1Malaysia Rakyat Didahulukan Pencapaian Diutamakan, dan terkini, aspirasi TN50 sebagai kesinambungan gagasan-gagasan pucuk kepimpinan Kerajaan, zaman-berzaman, yang sekaligus menolak fahaman ekstremisme, tidak berfikiran terlalu liberal, apatah lagi mengamalkan sistem ala-Taliban State.

40.      Jadinya, dari masa ke semasa, kepimpinan yang silih berganti ini, telah menyusun segala dasar dan strategi negara berlandaskan roh serta semangat kerangka dan pedoman Maqasid Syariah.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

41.      Memang benar, sekalipun kerangka Maqasid ini tidak tertulis atau termaktub secara rasmi dalam mana-mana dokumen Kerajaan, akan tetapi secara berhemah, amalan dan praktis-nya terzahir menerusi sekian-sekian falsafah dan sekian-sekian dasar negara, yang bersambung-sambung dan bertali-temali.

42.      Sebenarnya lagi, manhaj Maqasid Syariah yang dipegang oleh Kerajaan mensasarkan kepada kepentingan umum, yang mendatangi kebaikan kepada rakyat terbanyak, dengan mengambil kira tahap kemampuan Kerajaan mengikut  tiga keutamaan, iaitu Dho’-ru-riyat, Haa-Ji-Yat dan Tah-si-niyat, seperti yang saya sebutkan tadi.

43.      Jadinya, terbuktilah pentadbiran Kerajaan Barisan Nasional yang sudah menempa satu tempoh panjang yang sarat menggendong-gendong bersamanya, begitu banyak selok belok pengalaman, mahupun pengetahuan sepanjang 60 tahun, telah menjadi asas kepada Evolusi Pembangunan serta pembikinan jatidiri sebuah negara bangsa yang boleh diperbanggakan.

44.      Makanya, berbekalkan semua prinsip dan garis-garis besar haluan bernegara itu, pada petang yang berbahagia ini, dengan Kehendak dan Kurnia Allah Yang Maha Kaya, saya membingkiskan sebuah lagi Dokumen Besar demi kesejahteraan rakyat dan kemakmuran negara, yakni Bajet 2018.

Tuan Yang Dipertua, Saudara dan Saudari,

45.   Bajet 2018 digubal selaras dengan aspirasi Rancangan Malaysia Ke-11, dan ini merupakan Bajet yang ketiga di bawahnya. Lalu, untuk mempastikan kemakmuran dan kekayaan negara dapat dinikmati secara saksama dan inklusif, melalui pertumbuhan ekonomi domestik yang kukuh serta berdaya saing, dengan izin Allah terhasil-lah Bajet ini dengan bertemakan “MEMAKMUR EKONOMI YANG INKLUSIF, MENGIMBANG KEUNGGULAN DUNIAWI DAN UKHRAWI DEMI MENSEJAHTERA KEHIDUPAN RAKYAT, MENUJU ASPIRASI TN50” berasaskan kepada Lapan Pe-Tunjang.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

46.      PE-TUNJANG PERTAMA BAJET 2018 ADALAH MERANCAK PELABURAN, PERDAGANGAN DAN INDUSTRI. Jumlah pelaburan dalam negara dijangka meningkat 6.7 peratus atau menyumbang 25.5 peratus kepada KDNK pada tahun 2018.

47.      Dalam hal ini, Kerajaan akan terus menekankan pelaburan berimpak tinggi, seperti petroleum, logistik, rel, automasi dan robotik, serta industri berasaskan eksport.

48.      Sumbangan pelaburan swasta terus mengatasi pelaburan awam dengan nisbah 70:30. Pelaburan swasta dijangka mencecah 260 bilion ringgit pada 2018.

49.      Manakala pelaburan sektor awam dijangka mencecah 109 bilion ringgit, berbanding hanya 75 bilion ringgit pada 2009. Ini sejajar matlamat ETP untuk menjadikan sektor swasta sebagai engine of growth.

50.      Ini termasuk, satu bilion ringgit kepada Lima Koridor Utama. Kerajaan akan membangunkan Wilayah Selatan Perak, merangkumi pembangunan Proton City, Educity dan Youth City, Tanjung Malim serta Zon Bebas Cukai Bukit Kayu Hitam; pembinaan pelabuhan dan kawasan perindustrian Tok Bali, Kelantan serta jalan akses ke Empangan Baleh, Sarawak.

51.      Serentak itu, bagi terus meletakkan Malaysia sebagai lokasi pelaburan langsung asing, galakan cukai bagi Principal Hub akan dilanjutkan sehingga 31 Disember 2020. Bagi MIDA pula, kita akan memperuntukkan 200 juta ringgit untuk dana strategik berimpak tinggi.

52.      Malaysia komited untuk perkongsian maklumat ekonomi yang diperkenalkan oleh OECD. Ini termasuklah menerusi pelaksanaan Pelan Tindakan Base Erosion And Profit Shifting serta Pertukaran Maklumat Secara Automatik mulai September 2018.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

53.      Pembangunan Malaysia akan dilaksanakan melalui penglibatan inklusif PKS. Buat masa ini, di Malaysia, kita ada antaranya, perusahaan Jeruk Pak Ali, Sydney Cake House, Telekung Siti Khadijah dan Satay Haji Samuri, yang telah bertapak kukuh dengan jenama sendiri, malah ada yang telah menembusi pasaran antarabangsa.

54.      Wakil-wakil PKS yang kita banggakan, turut memeriahkan Pembentangan Bajet ini.  Ucapkan selamat datang kepada mereka ke Dewan Parlimen, serta marilah kita beri tepukan tahniah kepada kejayaan mereka!

55.      Sehubungan itu, Tuan Yang Dipertua, Bajet ini  mensasarkan supaya syarikat-syarikat PKS akan menyumbang 41 peratus kepada KDNK menjelang tahun 2020, melalui langkah berikut:

Pertama: Tujuh bilion ringgit di bawah Skim Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan atau SJPP, iaitu lima bilion ringgit untuk modal kerja dan dua bilion ringgit, pinjaman dengan 70 peratus jaminan Kerajaan untuk sektor perkhidmatan termasuk Industrial Revolution 4.0;

Kedua:     Dalam komitmen Kerajaan untuk mengautomasikan proses pengeluaran dan mengurangkan peng-gajian pekerja asing, satu jumlah besar diberi buat julung kalinya, sebanyak satu bilion ringgit, dengan pinjaman 70 peratus jaminan Kerajaan di bawah SJPP;

Ketiga:    Saiz Dana Skim Pembiayaan PKS Patuh Syariah ditambah 1 bilion ringgit, menjadikan saiz dana 2.5 bilion ringgit. Kemudahan ini diberi subsidi dua peratus ke atas kadar keuntungannya;

Keempat: Sejumlah 200 juta ringgit bagi program latihan, geran dan pinjaman mudah PKS di bawah SME Corp; dan

Kelima:    Hampir 82 juta ringgit bagi pembangunan industri dan produk halal di pelbagai agensi.

56.      Bukan itu sahaja, Kerajaan tidak melupakan usahawan-usahawan mikro, seperti peniaga coconut shake di Klebang, Melaka yang popular itu.

57.      Seiring ini juga, sukacita saya memperuntukkan Bajet paling tinggi pernah diberi kepada TEKUN, iaitu setengah bilion ringgit.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

58.      Selanjutnya, bagi menghargai sahabat Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia atau AIM yang majoritinya wanita serta merupakan pembayar balik hutang paling berdisiplin,… bagi mereka terus berusaha gigih, mengubah nasib dan memajukan diri serta keluarga masing-masing,…

Maka,… bagi Bajet ini, apalah salahnya kita tambah-tambahkan lagi dana AIM, sebanyak 200 juta ringgit.

Ini menjadikan jumlah pembiayaan keseluruhan AIM mencecah 2.7 bilion ringgit, memanfaatkan hampir 400 ribu peminjam.

Lagipun, telah tercipta pelbagai kisah kejayaan di kalangan peminjam.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

59.      Menyentuh hal ini,… kita sesungguhnya berasa simpati dan berbaur kagum dengan ketabahan seorang insan bernama Wan Azizah,… atau lebih dikenali dengan nama Kak Wan,… dalam menempuh liku-liku hidup beliau yang begitu mencabar….. namun, berkat kesabaran,… Kak Wan terus cekal berjuang,….

Nampaknya, Kak Wan ada bersama-sama kita pada hari ini,…

Justeru, marilah kita sama-sama memberi tepukan kepada Kak Wan Azizah binti Wan Salleh, yang berada di atas sana,… contoh Sahabat AIM yang telah berjaya menjadi jutawan di bidang ternakan dan pemprosesan ayam, dengan modal permulaan hanya sebanyak 500 ringgit daripada AIM sejak 1993.

60.      Selanjutnya, 80 juta ringgit disediakan di bawah Skim Pembiayaan Ekonomi Desa melalui Bank Rakyat dan Bank SME, bagi menyediakan kemudahan pembiayaan kepada usahawan Bumiputera luar bandar.

61.      Eksport negara pula, akan terus dipergiat, terutama kepada sektor eksport yang bernilai tinggi menerusi langkah berikut:

Pertama:      150 juta ringgit kepada MATRADE, MIDA dan SME Corp bagi melaksanakan promosi dan peluasan pasaran eksport termasuk Market Development Grant;

Kedua:         Satu bilion ringgit disediakan oleh EXIM Bank bagi kemudahan kredit perlindungan insurans, dan dua ratus juta ringgit untuk kemudahan kredit pembiayaan kepada pengeksport PKS; dan

Ketiga:         100 juta ringgit disediakan sebagai pinjaman dengan 70 peratus jaminan Kerajaan bagi meng-automasi pengeluaran perabot tempatan untuk tujuan eksport.

62.      Tuan Yang Dipertua, para pesawah,… para petani,… para pekebun kecil,… para nelayan,… para penternak,… serta mana-mana rakyat Malaysia yang terlibat dalam sektor pertanian. Sesungguhnya, tuan-tuan dan puan-puan lah antara kelompok masyarakat yang sangat dekat di hati saya dan Kerajaan.

63.      Justeru, buat pertama kali dalam sejarah Bajet negara, saya dengan penuh prihatin mengumumkan, peruntukan pa-ling besar kepada kelompok pesawah, petani, peladang, nelayan, pekebun kecil, penternak, dan penoreh getah sebanyak 6.5 bilion ringgit, antaranya:

Pertama: 2.3 bilion ringgit bagi bantuan dan insentif seperti baja dan input pengeluaran kepada pesawah, pekebun kecil getah dan nelayan;

Kedua:     Hampir 500 juta ringgit bagi menambah baik infrastruktur pengairan di kawasan pertanian dan menaik taraf jalan ladang;

Ketiga:    Hampir 200 juta ringgit bagi program penanaman semula getah dan menyediakan kemudahan infrastruktur dengan meningkatkan pengeluaran latex berbanding cup lump, sekali gus meningkatkan pendapatan para pekebun kecil;

Keempat: Hampir 140 juta ringgit bagi program pembangunan dan penanaman semula kelapa sawit termasuk promosi;

Kelima:    Dalam memperkasakan sektor pertanian, 200 juta ringgit disediakan bagi inisiatif Sumber Kekayaan Baharu, khususnya untuk penanaman jagung bijian, kelapa, durian, dan sektor kulinari serta industri tenusu dengan menubuhkan Lembaga Tenusu dan Ruminan.

Contohnya, di Hong Kong, harga durian Mawsang King dikhabarkan telah mencecah lapan ratus ringgit sebiji.

Keenam:  Buat pertama kalinya, skim khas, untuk program peningkatan pengeluaran kelapa melalui pendekatan penanaman semula kelapa variasi baru dari jenis CARECA dan MATAG akan diperkenalkan dengan peruntukan 50 juta ringgit, memanfaatkan 10 ribu pekebun kecil.

Pengurusan industri kelapa akan digabungkan di bawah satu lembaga baru bersama-sama industri nenas dan buah-buahan; dan

Ketujuh:  Selain penoreh getah dan nelayan yang dikekalkan bantuan-bantuannya, pada Bajet kali ini, buat pertama kalinya, saya juga ingin mengumumkan bantuan sebanyak 200 ringgit sebulan bagi tempoh 3 bulan sementara menunggu hasil tuaian padi, dengan peruntukan hampir 150 juta ringgit kepada pesawah padi.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

64.      Ternyata, kini sektor pelancongan merupakan antara penjana pendapatan utama kepada ekonomi negara.

65.      Buktinya World Tourism Organisation melaporkan bahawa pada 2016, Malaysia adalah negara ke-12 yang paling ramai dikunjungi oleh pelancong dari seluruh dunia.

Bak kata orang,

Dari Melaka ke Negeri Pahang,

Tumpang Berteduh di Bandar Pekan;

Negara Tersohor Pelancong Pun Datang,

Itulah Tandanya Malaysia Aman.

66.      Seterusnya, bagi tahun 2018, dijangka 28 juta pelancong melawat Malaysia. Sehubungan itu:

Pertama: Sukacita diisytiharkan dalam Bajet ini, tahun 2020 sebagai Tahun Melawat Malaysia atau Visit Malaysia Year 2020 di mana Malaysia akan menjadi tuan rumah antaranya kepada APEC, WCIT dan CHOGM;

Kedua:     Dua bilion ringgit diperuntukkan kepada Tabung Pelancongan PKS sebagai pinjaman kepada pengusaha pelancongan dengan memberi insentif subsidi kadar faedah dua peratus;

Ketiga:    Menambah satu bilion ringgit kepada Tabung Pembangunan Infrastruktur Pelancongan sebagai pinjaman mudah;

Keempat: Menyediakan 500 juta ringgit bagi program pembangunan dan promosi pelancongan melalui kemudahan infrastruktur pelancongan, homestay dan program eko-pelancongan;

Kelima:    Memperluas hab serantau eVisa bagi memudahkan permohonan visa di seluruh dunia, terutama kepada ekspatriat, pelajar asing dan program Malaysia My Second Home;

Keenam:  Galakan cukai bagi pelaburan hotel baharu bertaraf 4 dan 5 bintang dilanjutkan sehingga 31 Disember 2020; dan

Ketujuh:  Galakan pengecualian cukai pendapatan bagi syarikat pengendali pelancongan dilanjutkan sehingga tahun taksiran 2020.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

67.      Selain itu, industri pelancongan kesihatan turut diperkukuh menjadi sumber pendapatan negara, termasuklah menyediakan ‘end-to-end service’ kepada pelancong kesihatan ke Malaysia.

68.      Bagi hasrat ini, 30 juta ringgit disediakan kepada Malaysian Healthcare Travel Council untuk melaksanakan:

Pertama: Mempromosi Malaysia sebagai “Hab Rawatan Kesuburan, Termasuk IVF, dan Kardiologi Asia”, yang akan diperluaskan dengan kemudahan eVisa dan pakej perkhidmatan kesihatan bernilai tinggi;

Kedua:     Memperkenalkan Program Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital yang menawarkan insentif khusus kepada hospital swasta bagi menarik pelancong kesihatan;

Ketiga:    Galakan elaun cukai pelaburan sebanyak seratus peratus bagi pelancongan kesihatan dilanjutkan sehingga 31 Disember 2020;

Keempat: Potongan cukai dua kali ke atas perbelanjaan mendapatkan pensijilan kualiti daripada Badan pensijilan akreditasi kualiti perkhidmatan kesihatan, bagi perkhidmatan pergigian dan ambulatori yang berdaftar dengan MHTC; dan

Kelima:    Insentif khas pengecualian cukai dinaikkan daripada 50 peratus ke 100 peratus dari nilai peningkatan eksport, bagi perkhidmatan jagaan kesihatan swasta sahaja, mulai tahun taksiran 2018 hingga 2020.

Tuan yang Dipertua,

69.      Dalam mempastikan limpahan ekonomi yang lebih seimbang di antara bandar dan luar bandar, Kerajaan akan memperkemas infrastruktur logistik dan pengangkutan, melalui langkah berikut:

Pertama: Pembinaan projek East Coast Rail Link atau ECRL yang menghubungkan Pelabuhan Klang ke Pengkalan Kubor, Kelantan yang dapat membawa muatan kargo dan penumpang dalam tempoh empat jam. Kerja-kerja pembinaan fizikal akan bermula Januari 2018.

Selain itu, 110 juta ringgit diperuntukkan untuk menyedia jalan alternatif ke Pelabuhan Klang bagi melengkap dan melancarkan jaringan pengangkutan;

Kedua:     Projek MRT2 jajaran Sungai Buloh-Serdang-Putrajaya dengan jarak 52 kilometer meliputi 37 stesen dengan anggaran kos 32 bilion ringgit.

Selain itu, Kerajaan akan mempercepatkan pembinaan MRT3 atau Circle Line, dijangka siap pada 2025, lebih awal berbanding 2027.

Selanjutnya, bagi projek LRT3 yang bakal menghubungkan Bandar Utama ke Johan Setia, Klang, dijangka siap pada Februari 2021;

Ketiga:    Projek High Speed Rail menghubungkan Kuala Lumpur – Singapura sejauh 350 kilometer dalam masa 90 minit, dijangka memanfaatkan rakyat menjelang 2026;

Keempat: Berita gembira buat rakyat Selangor dan Perak, Lebuhraya Pesisiran Pantai Barat dari Banting ke Taiping sedang dibina dengan kos lima bilion ringgit;

Kelima:    Untuk Projek Central Spine Road, 230 juta ringgit diperuntukkan untuk tahun 2018 bagi meneruskan pembinaan, antaranya pakej jajaran Raub ke Bentong, dan jajaran Gua Musang, Kelantan ke Kampung Relong, Pahang;

Keenam:  Bajet ini juga mengisytiharkan bahawa,… Pulau Pangkor di Perak sebagai Pulau Bebas Cukai. Walau bagaimanapun, ini tidak termasuk barang-barang seperti minuman keras, rokok dan kenderaan bermotor; dan

Ketujuh: Untuk merancakkan ekonomi di bahagian Utara,

Special Border Economic Zone di Bukit Kayu Hitam akan dibangunkan.

Pembangunan ini turut merangkumi Zon Perindustrian Bebas yang akan menjadi tarikan baharu kepada pelabur dari dalam dan luar negara.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

70.      Di samping itu juga, Kerajaan melihat secara holistik keperluan rakyat untuk menikmati sistem pengangkutan awam yang lebih cekap dan selamat dengan langkah berikut:

Pertama: Tiga bilion ringgit disediakan kepada Dana Pembangunan Pengangkutan bagi pembelian aset kapal, pembangunan industri teknologi aeroangkasa dan rel.

Seterusnya, satu bilion ringgit diperuntukkan kepada Tabung Pengangkutan Awam bagi modal kerja dan pembelian aset seperti bas dan teksi;

Kedua:     95 juta ringgit bagi pembaikan dan pembinaan jeti serta pengerukan kuala sungai;

Ketiga:    Berikutan kejadian-kejadian kemalangan bas penumpang, 45 juta ringgit dibelanjakan bagi mewujudkan satu sistem kawalan biometric untuk memantau pemanduan perkhidmatan bas ekspres; dan

Keempat: 55 juta ringgit sebagai subsidi pengangkutan perkhidmatan keretapi luar bandar, dari Tumpat ke Gua Musang.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

71.      Saya membentangkan Bajet ini sebagai Perdana Menteri untuk kesejahteraan rakyat, tanpa mengira perbezaan fahaman politik dan kedudukan geografi, demi kepentingan ekonomi negara secara keseluruhannya,… maka saya mengumumkan,…

Pertama: Kerajaan akan menaik taraf Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Pulau Pinang dan Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Langkawi;

Kedua:     Membina baharu lapangan terbang Mukah dan pembesaran Lapangan terbang Kota Bharu dan Sandakan;

Ketiga:    Sementara itu, satu kajian mengenai lapangan terbang baru di Pulau Tioman sedang dijalankan oleh Kerajaan; dan

Keempat:Untuk merancakkan pembangunan di Labuan, Kerajaan akan membuat feasibility study bagi membina jambatan menghubungkan Labuan dengan tanah besar di Sabah.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

72.      Sesungguhnya, kita berbangga Malaysia dikenali sebagai peneraju sistem kewangan Islam dunia. Justeru, bagi memperkukuhkan potensi Malaysia sebagai pusat kewangan yang lebih komprehensif, Kerajaan akan meneruskan langkah berikut:

Pertama: 1.5 bilion ringgit untuk pinjaman perniagaan yang dikendalikan oleh SJPP, menggunakan harta intelek sebagai instrumen cagaran dengan memberi jaminan pembiayaan sehingga 80 peratus; dan

Kedua:     Memberi pengecualian duti setem ke atas nota kontrak bagi transaksi jual beli Exchange-Traded Fund dan Structured Warrants bagi tempoh tiga tahun mulai Januari 2018.

73.      Untuk merancakkan pasaran modal dan menyediakan akses pelaburan, Alternative Trading System akan diperkenalkan, tertakluk kepada pematuhan kesemua syarat dan piawaian regulatori yang ditetapkan. Ini akan membolehkan padanan tawaran jual-beli yang lebih efisien dan ketara.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

74.      Selanjutnya juga, Kerajaan ini turut mendengar rintihan dan keluhan banyak syarikat kecil seperti start-ups yang sukar mendapat akses kepada modal, bagi membawa mereka ke pasaran yang lebih luas.

75.      Untuk itu, Bajet ini akan menggalakkan aktiviti venture capital dengan melaksanakan langkah seperti berikut:

Pertama: Satu bilion ringgit disediakan oleh pelabur institusi utama untuk pelaburan venture capital dalam sektor keutamaan terpilih yang diselaras oleh Suruhanjaya Sekuriti;

Kedua:     Meluaskan pengecualian cukai pendapatan, meliputi fi pengurusan dan fi prestasi yang diterima oleh syarikat pengurus venture capital mulai tahun taksiran 2018 hingga 2022;

Ketiga:    Bagi memberi kemudahan kepada syarikat venture capital untuk melabur di dalam syarikat teroka, adalah dicadangkan had minima pelaburan dalam syarikat teroka dikurangkan daripada 70 peratus kepada 50 peratus, mulai tahun taksiran 2018 hingga 2022;

Keempat: Syarikat atau individu yang melabur dalam syarikat venture capital, diberi potongan cukai bersamaan amaun pelaburan yang dibuat di dalam syarikat teroka, terhad kepada maksima 20 juta ringgit setahun; dan

Kelima:    Galakan pengecualian cukai pendapatan yang bersamaan jumlah pelaburan oleh angel investor dalam syarikat teroka dilanjutkan sehingga 31 Disember 2020.

76.      Seterusnya, Kerajaan akan terus merancakkan pasaran Sustainable and Responsible Investment dengan langkah berikut:

Pertama: Pengecualian cukai pendapatan ke atas penerima geran khas Sukuk Green SRI berjumlah enam juta ringgit; dan

Kedua:     Pengecualian cukai pendapatan ke atas pendapatan fi pengurusan diperluaskan kepada pengurus dana SRI konvensional yang diluluskan mulai tahun taksiran 2018 hingga 2020.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

77.      Kerajaan akan menggalakkan ekonomi cashless society melalui peningkatan keberkesanan penggajian pekerja asing. Mulai 2018, Bank Negara Malaysia akan memantau pembayaran gaji kepada semua pekerja asing, kecuali pembantu rumah, dibuat melalui akaun bank tempatan

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

78.      PE-TUNJANG KEDUA: MENUJU ASPIRASI TN50. Pada pembentangan Bajet 2017 lalu, saya memperkenalkan Transformasi Nasional 2050 atau TN50 bagi melakar sebuah negara bangsa yang unggul, agar Malaysia terjulang dalam 20 negara terbaik di dunia.

79.      Dilaksanakan secara bottom-up, saya sendiri telah turun padang, mengadakan siri-siri wacana dan dialog TN50, dengan pelbagai segmen masyarakat seperti belia, mahasiswa, penjawat awam, penggiat seni, pendidik, dan pihak swasta, bagi mendapatkan aspirasi, pandangan dan idea.

Setakat ini, lebih daripada 80 ribu aspirasi telah diterima, menglibatkan 1.8 juta rakyat, mewakili pelbagai golongan dari seluruh negara.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

80.      Menuju TN50, bagi mencapai kualiti kerja dan kehidupan keluarga yang seimbang, Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan hendaklah mewajibkan semua bangunan pejabat yang baharu supaya menyediakan kemudahan pusat jagaan kanak-kanak, bermula di Kuala Lumpur.

81.      Selain itu, TN50 juga menekankan aspek pembelaan nasib semua golongan, termasuklah kebajikan Orang Kurang Upaya atau OKU.

Justeru, potongan cukai tambahan bagi majikan menggaji OKU diperluaskan kepada majikan yang menggaji pekerja yang mengalami kemalangan atau penyakit kritikal, yang  disahkan oleh Lembaga Perubatan PERKESO bahawa mereka masih layak bekerja.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

82.      Seterusnya,… demi menjamin masa depan generasi TN50 yang lebih cerah, Kerajaan bersama-sama PNB telah bersetuju supaya,… setiap anak Malaysia yang dilahirkan bermula 1 Januari 2018 sehingga 2022, dihadiahkan Dana Tabungan Permulaan sebanyak 200 ringgit melalui unit Amanah Saham di PNB.

83.      Skim yang pertama kali diperkenalkan di negara ini akan dinamakan sebagai Amanah Dana Anak Malaysia 2050, atau sesudahnya ini dikenali sebagai ADAM50.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

84.      Menyentuh tentang pendidikan untuk generasi TN50 lagi, sebanyak 250 juta ringgit disediakan untuk:

Pertama: Menubuhkan pusat Sains, Teknologi, Kejuruteraan dan Matematik atau STEM, bertujuan membentuk kaedah pembelajaran terkini, bagi melatih guru pakar STEM mengguna pakai fasiliti institut pendidikan guru sedia ada, dengan kerjasama Akademi Sains Malaysia;

Kedua:     Mempertingkatkan modul Computer Science yang termasuk program Coding dalam kurikulum sekolah rendah dan menengah, yang kini telah pun wujud di Tingkatan Satu dan Tingkatan Tiga;

Ketiga:    Memperuntukkan 190 juta ringgit bagi menaiktaraf dua ribu kelas menjadi Bilik Darjah Pintar Pembelajaran Abad Ke-21, bagi meningkatkan pembelajaran berasaskan pemikiran kreatif dan inovatif; dan

Keempat: Menuju TN50, Kerajaan juga melihat peranan penggiat seni untuk mengangkat mutu budaya ke tahap yang lebih tinggi. Untuk itu, hampir 20 juta ringgit disediakan kepada Cultural Economy Development Agency.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

85.      Mutakhir ini, Kerajaan amat  berbangga dengan pencapaian terbaik pendidikan tinggi negara kita:

Pertama: Menurut Laporan QS University Ranking 2017/2018, kelima-lima Research Universities di negara ini telah meningkat naik tergolong kumpulan 300 universiti terbaik global, yakni tersenarai antara satu peratus terbaik dunia;

Kedua:     Malah, ranking Universiti Malaya telah meningkat sebanyak 19 anak tangga, ke kedudukan 114, menghampiri 100 universiti terbaik dunia;

Ketiga:    Mengikut ranking Universitas 21, yang menilai sistem pendidikan tinggi, Malaysia ditempatkan pada kedudukan ke-25 terbaik dunia, kita telah mendaki sebanyak 11 anak tangga dalam tempoh 6 tahun;  dan

Keempat: Dengan jumlah 134 ribu pelajar asing di IPT tempatan, kita menghampiri matlamat menjadi Hab Pendidikan Tinggi Serantau.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

86.      Sejak tahun 2009 hinggalah sekarang, peruntukan untuk biasiswa yang disediakan oleh Kerajaan berjumlah 44 bilion ringgit. Bagi tahun 2018:

Pertamanya:   2.2 bilion ringgit bagi pemberian biasiswa Jabatan Perkhidmatan Awam, Kementerian Pendidikan Tinggi dan Kementerian Kesihatan;

Kedua:             400 juta ringgit untuk geran penyelidikan dan pembangunan kepada IPTA, berbanding 235 juta ringgit yang diperuntukkan dalam Bajet yang lalu, termasuk satu peruntukan khas kepada Universiti Malaya untuk mencapai status Top 100 Universities in the World dalam masa terdekat;

Ketiga:            90 juta ringgit diperuntukkan bagi Program MyBrain untuk 10,600 orang melanjutkan pelajaran di peringkat sarjana dan kedoktoran; dan

Keempat:            Setiap penuntut di IPT dan tingkatan enam pula akan terus diberi Bantuan Baucar Buku bernilai 250 ringgit, memanfaatkan seramai 1.2 juta pelajar.

Di kesempatan ini juga, saya mengucapkan sekalung tahniah kepada barisan kepimpinan baharu Majlis Perwakilan Pelajar di semua Universiti Awam, yang nampak kali ini, majoritinya dimenangi oleh pimpinan Mahasiswa Pro-Aspirasi, generasi pewaris TN50. Sebahagian wakil mereka turut bersama kita. Syabas dan tahniah diucapkan!

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

87.      Rakyat Malaysia perlu mempersiap siaga diri, peka dan pantas, melalui latihan dan latihan semula, dalam memenuhi kehendak pasaran kerja. Kerajaan akan terus memberi sokongan melalui,…

88.      Contohnya, Skim Latihan 1Malaysia atau SL1M, yang telah melatih lebih 138 ribu graduan, akan diteruskan dengan peningkatan sebanyak 5 ribu graduan kepada 25 ribu perantis pada tahun hadapan. Manakala, program temuduga terbuka oleh unit SL1M juga diteruskan dengan peruntukan sebanyak 40 juta ringgit.

89.      Bagi memperluaskan SL1M, syarikat swasta yang mendapat kontrak Kerajaan diwajibkan memperuntukkan satu peratus daripada nilai projek kepada SL1M.

90.      Selain itu, Kerajaan akan mewujudkan pusat sehenti menggabungkan agensi seperti JobsMalaysia, SL1M, PERKESO, HRDF dan TERAJU di UTC untuk menyediakan khidmat nasihat profesional bagi mendapatkan pekerjaan serta latihan.

91.      Bagi mencungkil bakat-bakat terbaik negara, Kerajaan akan mencipta ‘talent file’ program National Leaders Circle di bawah Talentcorp bagi mengenalpasti dan menyenaraipendekkan bakat-bakat pimpinan yang sesuai dan tepat, untuk mengisi jawatan-jawatan penting dan tertinggi.

92.      Kerajaan memandang serius gejala sosial yang membarah dalam masyarakat. Untuk menanganinya, geran sepadan sebanyak 50 juta ringgit bagi membiayai social enterprise dan NGO-NGO untuk menyelesaikan masalah kemasyarakatan harian serta cabaran sosial secara inovatif yang membantu rakyat.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

93.      Pada Ogos dan September yang lalu, di Stadium Nasional Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur menyaksikan bahawa, Malaysia telah diisytiharkan sebagai Juara Keseluruhan Temasya Sukan SEA Ke-29, dan mendapat tempat Kedua Sukan Para ASEAN Ke-9.

94.      Justeru, bagi pihak Kerajaan, marilah kita beri tepukan paling gemuruh kepada semua ‘wira’ dan ‘wirawati’ kita di atas sana!

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

95.      Bagi mengekalkan momentum bidang sukan dalam menjadi sports powerhouse, Kerajaan memperuntukkan satu bilion ringgit bagi melaksanakan inisiatif meliputi FitMalaysia, Hari Sukan Negara, latihan atlit, program akar umbi dan program pembangunan bola sepak negara.

96.      Kerajaan juga mengumumkan pembinaan 14 kompleks sukan baharu di seluruh negara, dengan kos 112 juta ringgit.

97.      Di samping itu, sukacita diumumkan peruntukan 20 juta ringgit kepada Sekolah Sukan Bukit Jalil, untuk menambah baik kemudahannya sebagai sekolah sukan premier.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

98.      PE-TUNJANG KETIGA:   MENG-UNGGULI PEMBANGUNAN PENDIDIKAN, LATIHAN, KEMAHIRAN DAN BAKAT. Untuk pengetahuan, perbelanjaan pendidikan Malaysia adalah lebih dua kali ganda daripada perbelanjaan negara ASEAN lain secara purata. Bagi tahun 2018, 61.6 bilion ringgit disediakan untuk sektor ini.

Ini termasuk 654 juta ringgit bagi pembinaan empat pra sekolah, sembilan pusat PERMATA termasuk dua pusat baharu untuk kanak-kanak autisme; 48 buah sekolah rendah, menengah dan kolej vokasional, serta sebuah pusat matrikulasi.

99.      Saban tahun, Bajet ini sentiasa memberi keutamaan kepada Tabung Khas Penambahbaikan dan Penyelenggaraan Sekolah. Di sudut ini, 550 juta ringgit diperuntukkan, dengan pecahan berikut:

•          Kepada Sekolah Kebangsaan – 250 juta ringgit;

•          Kepada Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina – 50 juta ringgit;

•          Kepada Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Tamil – 50 juta ringgit;

•          Kepada Sekolah Mubaligh – 50 juta ringgit;

•          Kepada Sekolah Berasrama Penuh – 50 juta ringgit;

•          Kepada Maktab Rendah Sains MARA – 50 juta ringgit; dan

•          Kepada Sekolah Agama Bantuan Kerajaan – 50 juta ringgit.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

100.        Menyedari dan menginsafi hakikat bahawa terdapat hampir 2 ribu sekolah di seluruh negara yang berada dalam keadaan daif, seperti bumbungnya bocor, lantai yang rosak, dinding berlubang dan peralatan yang sudah lama tidak berganti.

101.            Untuk itu, melalui kaedah Industrial Building System, Kerajaan dengan penuh rasa tanggungjawab, mengumumkan,… peruntukan ter-besar sejumlah 2.5 bilion ringgit bagi tempoh dua tahun, dengan pecahan 500 juta ringgit buat sekolah-sekolah daif di Semenanjung Malaysia, 1 bilion ringgit di Sabah dan 1 bilion ringgit di Sarawak.

102.            Sejumlah 2.9 bilion ringgit pula, diperuntukkan untuk bantuan makanan, buku teks, geran kapita dan biasiswa kecil persekutuan.

103.        Manakala, Bantuan Persekolahan seratus ringgit seorang kepada murid sekolah berpendapatan rendah diteruskan, dengan peruntukan 328 juta ringgit, memanfaatkan 3.2 juta murid.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

104.          Menyentuh hal pendidikan, teringat saya intisari sajak Guru Oh Guru yang sering disesuaikan dengan karya Sasterawan Negara, Allahyarham Dato’ Usman Awang atau nama pena-nya Tongkat Warrant, berbunyi:

Jika hari ini siapa sahaja menjadi dewasa,…

Menjadi seorang Perdana Menteri,… menjadi doktor,… menjadi peguam,…

Menjadi ahli politik,… menjadi akauntan,…

Hakikat,… sejarahnya dimula oleh seorang guru biasa,…

Dengan lembut dan sabar,…

Gurulah yang mengajar kita menulis dan membaca.

105.          Begitulah mulianya pengorbanan para guru, bagai lilin yang membakar diri. Maka diucapkan syabas kepada semua guru di seluruh negara, yang telah bertungkus-lumus membangunkan anak-anak bangsa!

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

106.          Seperti semua maklum, PTPTN ditubuhkan bagi menguruskan pinjaman untuk anak-anak Malaysia melanjutkan pengajian pendidikan tinggi.

107.          Dalam bab PTPTN ini, semua kena faham,… seperti mafhum dalam hadis, hutang tetap hutang dan wajib dibayar.

108.          Maka hal PTPTN ini usahlah dipolitikkan, tapi peminjam perlu bertanggungjawab membayar balik, kerana generasi kini dan akan datang turut memerlukannya, sebagai mana anda semua.

109.          Kepada semua peminjam PTPTN, Kerajaan bersetuju melanjutkan diskaun bayaran balik pinjaman PTPTN sehingga 31 Disember 2018 seperti berikut:

20 peratus atas baki hutang untuk penyelesaian penuh pinjaman;

10 peratus untuk bayaran sekurang-kurangnya 50 peratus daripada baki hutang dalam sekali bayaran; dan

10 peratus untuk bayaran balik melalui potongan gaji atau direct debit mengikut jadual.

110.          Bukan itu sahaja, sukacita saya mengumumkan kelonggaran tambahan PTPTN seperti berikut:

Pertama:     Bagi pelajar dari keluarga B40 yang mengikuti kursus ber-boleh-pasaran tinggi, 200 juta ringgit ditambah untuk menaikkan jumlah pinjaman maksimum mereka; dan

Kedua:        Tempoh grace period pembayaran balik pinjaman dilanjutkan kepada 12 bulan setelah tamat pengajian, berbanding enam bulan pada masa ini.

111.          Seterusnya, kepada para peminjam yang ingin menyambung pengajian ke peringkat seterusnya, sebagai contoh diploma ke ijazah sarjana muda, mereka boleh meng-gabungkan pinjaman diploma dan ijazah sebagai satu pinjaman, dan hanya perlu membuat bayaran balik selepas tamat pengajian di peringkat ijazah itu.

112.          Jelas sekali,… pelbagai ruang telah Kerajaan berikan,… kalau tak bayar juga, tak tahu lah apa yang kita nak ucapkan lagi,…

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

113.          Selain itu, bagi menggalakkan budaya menabung untuk pendidikan, 250 juta ringgit disediakan kepada 500 ribu pencarum berumur 7 hingga 12 tahun dalam Skim Simpanan Pendidikan Nasional yang dijenamakan semula sebagai Skim Simpanan Pendidikan 1Malaysia atau SSP1M, kelolaan PTPTN.

Geran sepadan lima ratus ringgit akan diberikan kepada mereka yang mempunyai jumlah caruman sekurang-kurangnya lima ratus ringgit, dan hanya boleh dikeluarkan apabila mencapai usia 18 tahun.

114.          Tambahannya, tempoh pelepasan cukai pendapatan individu dilanjutkan, terhad kepada enam ribu ringgit, bagi simpanan bersih yang dibuat ke dalam SSP1M selama tiga tahun mulai tahun taksiran 2018.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

115.          Sebetulnya lagi, menyedari kepentingan Pendidikan dan Latihan Teknikal dan Vokasional atau TVET dalam melahirkan tenaga kerja berkemahiran tinggi dan berdaya saing, kesemua institusi TVET di bawah tujuh Kementerian, dijenamakan sebagai “TVET Malaysia”, di bawah koordinasi Kementerian Sumber Manusia.

116.          Selain itu, Kerajaan memperuntukkan 4.9 bilion ringgit untuk melaksanakan Pelan Induk TVET Malaysia.

117.          Bagi menggalakkan lepasan TVET melanjutkan pengajian, Kerajaan menyediakan seratus Biasiswa Pelajar Cemerlang TVET dengan peruntukan 4.5 juta ringgit.

118.          Bagi menyokong perkembangan industri pekerja mahir dalam bidang rel, Kerajaan akan menubuhkan National Rail Centre of Excellence, berperanan menyelia dan menyelaras jaminan kualiti serta akreditasi pendidikan dan latihan rel negara. Sebagai tambahan, syarikat Malaysia Rail Link Sdn. Bhd., dengan kerjasama IPTA, akan melatih tiga ribu profesional dalam industri ini.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

119.          PE-TUNJANG KEEMPAT ADALAH MEMACU PEMBANGUNAN INKLUSIF. Sesungguhnya, kualiti infrastruktur dan interconnectivity negara akan terus dipermodenkan.

120.          Justeru, Kerajaan terus bertumpu kepada Projek-Projek Infra-Rakyat bertaraf dunia. Contohnya, MRT jajaran Sungai Buloh-Kajang berjaya kita siapkan, berkeupayaan menampung 400 ribu pengguna sehari.

121.          Menariknya, MRT ini merupakan ‘success story’ di mana kita bukan sahaja dapat menyiapkan projek itu lebih awal daripada jadual, malah, telah berjaya menjimatkan kos sebanyak 2 bilion ringgit daripada jumlah asal pembinaan.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

122.          Menjengah kemudahan prasarana di Sabah dan Sarawak pula, Kerajaan telah mengotakan janjinya melalui pembinaan LEBUHRAYA PAN-BORNEO.

123.          Mudah-mudahan, projek ini akan terus mengukir senyuman lebar kepada “urang-urang” Sabah dan Sarawak kerana kemajuan telah sampai di kaki-kaki halaman masing-masing, sehingga kawasan terpencil di Kapit-Ulu Song, yang sebelum ini terputus hubungan dengan dunia luar.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

124.          Untuk infrastruktur asas terutama di luar bandar, 6.5 bilion ringgit disediakan, antaranya:

Pertama:     2 bilion ringgit untuk projek Lebuhraya Pan-Borneo. Bagi negeri Sarawak, kesemua 11 pakej pembinaan telah diagihkan, manakala lima daripada 35 pakej Fasa Pertama di Sabah sudahpun dianugerahkan, dan 12 lagi dalam proses tender;

Kedua:         1.1 bilion ringgit untuk projek mesra rakyat seperti menaik taraf jambatan, lampu jalan kampung, surau serta pasar;

Ketiga:        Satu bilion ringgit diperuntukkan melalui SKMM, bagi membangunkan infrastruktur komunikasi serta kemudahan jalur lebar di Sabah dan Sarawak;

Keempat:    934 juta ringgit untuk projek jalan luar bandar, termasuk hampir 500 juta ringgit untuk Sabah dan Sarawak;

Kelima:        672 juta ringgit untuk bekalan elektrik, termasuk 620 juta ringgit untuk Sabah dan Sarawak melibatkan 10 ribu rumah luar bandar.

Secara keseluruhannya, sejak 2009, lebih 100 bilion ringgit subsidi telah dibelanjakan termasuk subsidi gas bahan api, untuk membolehkan rakyat Malaysia mendapatkan bekalan elektrik yang murah, berkualiti dan realiable;

Keenam:  420 juta ringgit termasuk hampir 300  juta ringgit untuk Sabah dan Sarawak, disediakan bagi bekalan air bersih meliputi 3 ribu rumah;

Ketujuh: 500 juta ringgit disediakan untuk Program Penyelenggaraan Infrastruktur Awam, dan Projek Infrastruktur Asas, untuk memenuhi keperluan dan wishlist rakyat di peringkat akar umbi; dan

Kelapan: 50 juta ringgit diperuntukkan untuk pemetaan dan pengukuran tanah-tanah adat, iaitu 30 juta ringgit untuk Sarawak dan 20 juta ringgit untuk Sabah.

Sebahagian daripada projek rakyat-centric ini akan dilaksanakan melalui inisiatif pembiayaan swasta.

125.          National Blue Ocean Shift atau NBOS juga terus dilaksanakan secara pantas dan bersepadu, dengan kos yang minima serta berimpak tinggi.

126.          Bagi 2018, sebanyak 300 juta ringgit diperuntukkan untuk program NBOS termasuk pembinaan UTC baharu, Blue Ocean Entrepreneur Township, Mobile CTC, program keusahawanan, Global Entrepreneurship Community serta Usahawan Sosial yang inklusif dan vibrant.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

127.          Kebajikan para peneroka FELDA terus dibela. Lebih 112 ribu peneroka FELDA telah menerima ‘durian runtuh’ melalui enam insentif utama, antaranya bayaran Insentif Khas Peneroka bernilai 5 ribu ringgit.

128.          Saya juga ingin mengumumkan, Kerajaan akan mengembalikan semula wang ses yang telah dibayar oleh peneroka getah yang telah membuat tanaman semula kelapa sawit, dari tahun 2010 hingga 2016. Ini akan memanfaatkan 8,925 peneroka FELDA dengan peruntukan 43 juta ringgit. Bukan itu sahaja, 60 juta ringgit juga disediakan untuk program tanaman semula sawit.

129.          Selanjutnya, 164 juta ringgit diperuntukkan bagi membina 5 ribu unit Rumah Generasi Kedua FELDA, dengan kerjasama SPNB.

130.          Sebagai tambahan, hampir 200 juta ringgit lagi diperuntukkan kepada FELDA, bagi sistem bekalan air dan menaik taraf jalan serta lampu jalan.

Mustahaknya, Kerajaan kini, dulu dan selamanya akan memperjuangkan nasib para peneroka FELDA.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

131.          Bagi mengekang ancaman ideologi ekstremisme seperti IS dan DAESH, Kerajaan telah menubuhkan Pusat Serantau Digital Memerangi Mesej Melalui Komunikasi.

132.          Di samping itu, Kerajaan akan Mempertingkatkan Keselamatan Sempadan Dan Ketenteraman Awam dengan memperuntukkan lebih 14 bilion ringgit untuk Angkatan Tentera Malaysia, hampir 9 bilion ringgit untuk Polis DiRaja Malaysia dan lebih 900 juta ringgit kepada Agensi Penguatkuasaan Maritim Malaysia.

133.          Program utama yang akan dilaksanakan merangkumi:

Pertama:     Tiga bilion ringgit untuk pembelian dan penyelenggaraan aset pertahanan;

Kedua:         720 juta ringgit bagi pembinaan sebelas ibu pejabat dan enam balai polis, serta pembelian kelengkapan senjata api dan kenderaan operasi. Manakala 170 juta ringgit untuk menaik taraf peralatan ICT termasuk sistem 1PDRMnet, serta 100 juta ringgit bagi menaik taraf sistem komunikasi.

Selanjutnya, bagi menjaga kebajikan anggota polis, saya dengan sukacitanya mengumumkan,… 10 ribu unit Perumahan Penjawat Awam 1Malaysia-PDRM atau PPA1M-PDRM akan dibina, yang harganya sesuai dengan tangga gaji anggota polis;

Ketiga:            490 juta ringgit kepada APMM untuk baik pulih dan selenggara kapal serta bot, menaiktaraf jeti, juga pembelian tiga kapal peronda;

Keempat:        250 juta ringgit kepada ESSCOM bagi mempertingkatkan kawalan keselamatan di kawasan sempadan Sabah dan Sarawak, termasuk 50 juta ringgit untuk coastal surveillance radar;

Kelima:            50 juta ringgit bagi meningkatkan keupayaan aset pesenjataan pasukan gerak khas menangani kegiatan anti-keganasan; dan

Keenam:          Selain itu, dalam menghargai peranan RELA membantu masyarakat selama ini, Kerajaan menyediakan peruntukan yang paling tinggi, iaitu hampir 250 juta ringgit bagi kelengkapan keperluan, termasuk pakaian seragam.

134.          Dalam menjaga kebajikan para tentera, Kerajaan akan:

Pertama:     Menyediakan blueprint Perumahan Keluarga Angkatan Tentera untuk membina lebih 40 ribu unit secara berfasa, menjelang tahun 2030. Bagi  2018, sebanyak hampir 6 ribu unit akan dibina; dan

Kedua:         40 juta ringgit untuk menaik taraf lima hospital, membina empat poliklinik dan hospital veteran angkatan tentera.

135.          Untuk itu, marilah kita bersama-sama memberikan setinggi-tinggi penghargaan dan tepukan kepada semua anggota keselamatan negara, merangkumi pasukan polis, anggota tentera, dan APMM, yang telah berkorban jiwa dan raga, demi menjaga keamanan serta kedaulatan pertiwi tercinta ini!

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

136.          Seperti mana kita maklum, Masyarakat Bumiputera kini menghampiri 70 peratus daripada keseluruhan 32 juta rakyat Malaysia.

137.          Oleh yang demikian, adalah wajar Kerajaan melalui dasar Transformasi Kesejahteraan Bumiputera atau TKB, untuk terus mempastikan Agenda Pemerkasaan Bumiputera menjadi Agenda Nasional.

138.          Semenjak tahun 2009, pelbagai inisiatif besar bagi memperkasakan ekonomi Bumiputera telah dan sedang dilaksanakan.

139.          Contohnya, inisiatif Carve Out and Compete bagi Bumiputera, telah mencapai nilai kontrak lebih 61 bilion ringgit. Juga, 1.7 bilion ringgit Dana Mudahcara telah diluluskan kepada 515 projek, menyediakan lebih 44 ribu peluang pekerjaan.

140.          Apa yang membanggakan, program ini telah membuktikan bahawa, kontraktor-kontraktor Bumiputera semakin berdaya saing dan berkeupayaan, malah mampu menyiapkan projek lebih awal dari jadual, tanpa menjejaskan kualiti.

141.          Di sudut lain, melalui Yayasan Peneraju Pendidikan Bumiputera, hampir 17 ribu bakat-bakat profesional bumiputera telah berjaya dilahirkan seperti di bidang perakaunan dan kejuruteraan.

142.          Selain itu, 2.4 bilion ringgit diperuntukkan kepada UiTM. Dalam pada ini, Kerajaan telah menambah bilangan kemasukan pelajar di UiTM kepada lebih 165 ribu orang dengan sasaran mencapai 250 ribu pelajar menjelang 2020.

143.          Lebih membanggakan, UiTM sebagai institusi Bumiputera, telah berjaya melahirkan lebih 700 ribu graduan Melayu dan Bumiputera.

144.          Laginya, untuk 2018, Kerajaan memperuntukkan lebih 3.5 bilion ringgit bagi inisiatif:

Pertamanya:       2.5 bilion ringgit, yakni tertinggi pernah diberikan, untuk biasiswa pengajian tinggi dan latihan di bawah MARA, memanfaatkan hampir 90 ribu pelajar, termasuk 1,500 dalam bidang kritikal seperti Artificial Intelligence, signalling dan Rel;

Kedua:         90 juta ringgit, bagi Program Peneraju Profesional, Skil dan Tunas, memanfaatkan hampir 8 ribu orang;

Ketiga:        200 juta ringgit untuk MARA Graduate Employability Training Scheme atau GETS;

Keempat:    555 juta ringgit untuk Program Peningkatan Keusahawanan Bumiputera, terdiri daripada:

·        200 juta ringgit bagi Program Keusahawanan dan Premis Perniagaan PUNB;

·        200 juta ringgit untuk Program Pembangunan Keusahawan MARA; serta

·        155 juta ringgit untuk program pembangunan kapasiti vendor, Tunas Usahawan Belia Bumiputera atau TUBE, Skim Usahawan Permulaan Bumiputera atau SUPERB dan Skim Anjakan Usahawan; dan

Kelima:    Bagi meningkatkan pegangan ekuiti dan pelaburan dalam sektor strategik, 150 juta ringgit diperuntukkan kepada Pelaburan Hartanah Berhad dan 150 juta ringgit kepada EKUINAS.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

145.          Sebagai suatu Bajet yang inklusif, untuk komuniti Cina pula, Kerajaan turut menyediakan 50 juta ringgit untuk pinjaman PKS melalui KOJADI.

146.          Sebagai tambahan, 30 juta ringgit juga disalurkan kepada Yayasan Peniaga dan Penjaja Kecil 1Malaysia untuk memberi pinjaman kepada penjaja komuniti Cina.

147.          Sementara itu, kepada pembangunan Kampung-kampung Baru Cina, sebanyak 65 juta ringgit diperuntukkan, dan 10 juta ringgit lagi untuk program membaik pulih rumah.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

148.          Menyentuh kebajikan kaum India pula, purata pendapatan bulanan isi rumah menunjukkan kadar pertumbuhan yang tinggi, iaitu 6.8 peratus setahun.  Laginya baru-baru ini, saya telah melancarkan Pelan Tindakan Masyarakat India Malaysia.

149.          Untuk itu, melalui TEKUN, 50 juta ringgit diperuntukkan untuk Skim Pinjaman Usahawan Masyarakat India, memanfaatkan lebih 35 ribu usahawan. Sebagai tambahan, 50 juta ringgit lagi diperuntukkan untuk program pembangunan sosio ekonomi masyarakat India.

150.          Pada masa yang sama, melalui MIB juga, pengambilan kaum India ke institusi pengajian tinggi awam dan perkhidmatan awam akan Kerajaan tingkatkan, dengan sasaran pengambilan baharu tujuh peratus.

151.          Di bawah Unit Pembangunan Sosioekonomi Masyarakat India atau SEDIC pula, lebih 230 juta ringgit telah diagihkan sejak 2014, memanfaatkan lebih 500 ribu peserta kaum India.

152.          Bajet 2018 juga akan memperkenalkan satu inisiatif baharu untuk masyarakat India. Sukacita saya maklumkan bahawa PNB akan membuat pengagihan khas sejumlah 1.5 bilion unit tambahan Amanah Saham 1Malaysia untuk masyarakat India, terhad kepada 30 ribu unit setiap pelabur.

153.          Bagi menyokong inisiatif ini juga, dana sebanyak 500 juta ringgit diperuntukkan untuk tempoh lima tahun bagi satu skim pinjaman pelaburan khas yang akan ditawarkan kepada 100 ribu isi rumah daripada golongan B40 masyarakat India, terhad kepada 5 ribu unit setiap peserta.

154.          MIB membuktikan kepada masyarakat India bahawa, dalam pembangunan negara, tidak ada kelompok yang ketinggalan,… ‘indeed, the future belongs to all of us’ atau dalam bahasa Tamilnya disebut sebagai, ‘NAA-LEY NAMA-THEY’.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

155.          Bagi meningkatkan taraf hidup dan pembangunan ekonomi masyarakat Orang Asli, 50 juta ringgit disediakan, meliputi program bantuan makanan komuniti, memanfaatkan hampir 5 ribu pelajar Orang Asli.

156.          Selain itu, sebagai insentif kepada anak Orang Asli yang berjaya, Kerajaan juga akan memberi bantuan sebanyak 3 ribu ringgit kepada ibu bapa, sebagai perbelanjaan persediaan anak-anak mereka memasuki institusi pengajian tinggi.

157.          Selanjutnya, Program Pembangunan Bersepadu Perkampungan Orang Asli juga diteruskan dengan peruntukan sebanyak 60 juta ringgit.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

158.          Sememangnya wanita adalah tulang belakang kepada kesejahteraan keluarga dan pembangunan negara. Maka, sebagai menghargai sumbangan mereka, sukacitanya Kerajaan mengumumkan, 2018 sebagai Tahun Memperkasa Wanita.

159.          Ke arah itu, antara langkah yang akan dilaksanakan:

Pertama:     Mewajibkan sekurang-kurangnya 30 peratus wanita dalam keahlian lembaga pengarah GLC dan GLIC serta badan berkanun, sebelum akhir tahun 2018;

Kedua:         Mencadangkan tempoh cuti bersalin mandatori untuk sektor swasta dinaikkan daripada 60 hari ke 90 hari, seperti yang telah dilaksanakan oleh perkhidmatan awam;

Ketiga:        20 juta ringgit untuk program latihan dan keusahawanan wanita antaranya PEAK Entrepreneur Programme di bawah MyWin Academy; dan

Keempat:    Bagi menggalakkan golongan wanita kembali bekerja, Kerajaan mencadangkan layanan pengecualian cukai pendapatan individu disediakan ke atas pendapatan yang diperolehi dalam tempoh 12 bulan berturut-turut, kepada mereka selepas tempoh sekurang-kurangnya dua tahun berhenti daripada pekerjaan. Pengecualian ini layak dituntut bagi tahun taksiran 2018 hingga 2020.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

160.          PE-TUNJANG KELIMA: MENGUTAMAKAN KESEJAHTERAAN RAKYAT DAN PELUANG MENJANA PENDAPATAN.

161.          Kerajaan terus komited dan berikhtiar gigih dalam mewujudkan peluang pekerjaan serta menjana pendapatan, melalui langkah-langkah berikut:

Pertama:     100 juta ringgit untuk memperluas Program eRezeki, eUsahawan dan eLadang di bawah MDEC;

Kedua:         Menyediakan pinjaman mudah sebanyak 120 juta ringgit kepada seribu usahawan Food Truck 1Malaysia dan Mobile Food Kiosk 1Malaysia melalui Bank Rakyat dan Bank Simpanan Nasional, dengan Kerajaan memberi subsidi kadar faedah empat peratus;

Ketiga:        60 juta ringgit untuk program 1AZAM, termasuk 10 juta ringgit untuk Sabah dan 10 juta ringgit untuk Sarawak; dan

Keempat:    25 juta ringgit untuk Program Motosikal Tiga Roda di bawah FAMA, program mobilepreneur GiatMara, dan program MyAGROSIS.

162.          Di sudut lain, selaras dengan IR 4.0, kepada semua pemandu teksi berdaftar sedia ada, bahawa Kerajaan mendengar pandangan tuan-tuan, yang berhasrat untuk bertukar ke penggunaan aplikasi e-hailing. Untuk itu, saya umumkan,… geran 5 ribu ringgit disediakan kepada setiap pemandu teksi yang terlibat untuk membeli kereta baharu.

Kita berasa gembira kerana beberapa wakil pemandu teksi turut hadir mendengar pembentangan Bajet pada petang ini. Kita ucapkan terima kasih,… terima kasih!

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

163.          Sejak BR1M diperkenalkan, terbukti rakyat teramai menerimanya dengan senang hati dan rasa syukur. Jelas sekali, BR1M merupakan suatu bentuk subsidi bersasar kepada golongan yang benar-benar memerlukannya, terbukti keberkesanannya.

164.          Hatta, pihak pembangkang yang begitu negatif terhadap inisiatif ini dan menuduh sebagai “dedak” itu dan “umpan” ini, tapi kini tanpa segan silu membuat “u-turn”, dan khabarnya Kerajaan Pulau Pinang sendiri telah akur akan benarnya program BR1M oleh Kerajaan ini.

165.          Sehubungan itu, jika BR1M tahun ini telah memanfaatkan 7 juta penerima dengan peruntukan 6.8 bilion ringgit, maka bagi tahun 2018, 7 juta penerima itu akan terus menikmati pemberian ini, dengan kadar maksimum sehingga 1,200 ringgit.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

166.          Kerajaan sentiasa berusaha untuk meningkatkan pendapatan boleh guna isi rumah serta merapatkan jurang pendapatan di Malaysia.

167.          Dengan ini, saya mengumumkan satu lagi khabar gembira kepada setiap 2.3 juta pembayar cukai, yang akan dinikmati terutamanya oleh golongan pendapatan pertengahan yakni M40, atau lebih khusus, isi rumah berpendapatan 9 ribu ringgit ke bawah.

168.          Ingin saya umumkan,…. kadar cukai pendapatan individu pemastautin dikurangkan dua mata peratusan bagi banjaran pendapatan bercukai antara 20 ribu hingga 70 ribu ringgit, iaitu:

Pertama: Banjaran Pendapatan Bercukai daripada 20,001 ringgit sehingga 35,000 ringgit, kadarnya diturunkan daripada 5 peratus kepada 3 peratus;

Kedua:     Banjaran Pendapatan Bercukai daripada 35,001 ringgit sehingga 50,000 ringgit pula, kadarnya diturunkan daripada  10 peratus kepada 8 peratus; dan

Ketiga:    Banjaran Pendapatan Bercukai daripada 50,001 ringgit sehingga 70,000 ringgit kadarnya diturunkan daripada 16 peratus kepada 14 peratus.

Langkah ini akan meningkatkan pendapatan boleh guna rakyat antara 300 ringgit sehingga seribu ringgit. Ini bermakna, dianggarkan sejumlah 1.5 bilion ringgit lebihan pendapatan boleh guna, dapat dibelanjakan oleh rakyat. Dengan langkah ini juga, semua pembayar cukai akan mendapat faedah di samping lebih 261 ribu orang kini tidak perlu lagi membayar cukai pendapatan.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

169.          Seperkara lagi, demi kemaslahatan rakyat seharian, Bajet ini masih memperuntukkan 3.9 bilion ringgit subsidi barangan dan pengangkutan, termasuk gas memasak, tepung, minyak masak, subsidi elektrik dan tol.

170.          Seperti yang telah diumumkan sebelum ini, Kedai Rakyat 1Malaysia akan distruktur semula sebagai KR1M 2.0. Sebagai permulaan pada 2018, 50 kedai akan dijadikan KR1M 2.0 dan diperluaskan kepada tiga ribu KR1M 2.0 dalam tempoh tiga tahun.

171.          KR1M 2.0 akan menyediakan lima barang keperluan asas dengan harga rendah iaitu beras, gula, minyak masak, tepung dan LPG. Di samping itu, 50 jenis barangan pengguna berjenama dijual pada harga lebih rendah daripada pasaran.

172.          Bagi Program Penyeragaman Harga Barang Keperluan Asas di Sabah dan Sarawak diteruskan dengan peruntukan 80 juta ringgit.

173.          Di samping itu, Kerajaan akan membangunkan Agrobazaar Malaysia dengan peruntukan 20 juta ringgit, bagi menyediakan ruang pasaran dan pusat jualan agro makanan dengan harga yang lebih rendah, dimulakan di Putrajaya.

174.          Kementerian Pertanian dan Industri Asas Tani akan melaksanakan program melalui FAMA dan LKIM dengan peruntukan 50 juta ringgit, bertujuan agar pengguna memperolehi stok barang makanan dengan harga berpatutan, seperti ikan, sayur, ayam dan telur.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

175.          Seterusnya, berita gembira buat pengguna lebuhraya di Selangor, Kedah dan Johor. Mulai 1 Januari 2018, Kerajaan telah bersetuju untuk:-

Pertama:     Memansuhkan kutipan tol di Batu Tiga, Shah Alam dan Sungai Rasau di Selangor;

Kedua:         Memansuhkan kutipan tol di Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah; dan

Ketiganya: Memansuhkan kutipan tol di Eastern Dispersal Link, Johor.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

176.          Bagi mereka yang bekerja sendiri dan tiada pendapatan tetap, Kerajaan akan meningkatkan sumbangan terhadap caruman kepada 15 peratus tertakluk kepada maksimum 250 ringgit setahun di dalam Skim Persaraan 1Malaysia, di bawah KWSP. Sumbangan ini bermula dari 2018 hingga 2022.

Tuan yang Dipertua,

177.          Kerajaan sedar akan beban kos yang ditanggung oleh isi rumah, bagi penggajian pembantu rumah asing. Pada masa ini, kos keseluruhan membawa masuk setiap pembantu rumah boleh mencecah setinggi 12 hingga 18 ribu ringgit.

178.          Bagi mengatasi isu ini, Kerajaan akan mengkaji semula kos pengambilan pembantu rumah asing supaya dapat dikurangkan pada masa hadapan.

179.          Sebagai permulaan, Kerajaan memberi pilihan kepada majikan untuk mengambil pembantu rumah asing secara langsung daripada sembilan negara sumber, tanpa melalui ejen.

180.          Seterusnya, majikan boleh memohon visa pembantu rumah daripada Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia secara online dengan bayaran levi dan fi pemprosesan seperti kadar sedia ada.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

181.          Dalam hal perumahan dan kediaman, Kerajaan akan merancakkan lagi usaha pemilikan rumah untuk rakyat dengan peruntukan 2.2 bilion ringgit seperti berikut:

Pertama:     17,300 unit rumah Projek Perumahan Rakyat;

Kedua:         3,000 unit rumah program Rumah Mesra Rakyat di bawah SPNB;

Ketiga:        210 ribu  unit rumah di bawah program PR1MA yang berharga 250 ribu ringgit ke bawah. Untuk ini, 1.5 bilion ringgit diperuntukkan bagi tempoh dua tahun;

Keempat:    25 ribu unit rumah akan disiapkan pada tahun hadapan di bawah PPA1M, dan 128 ribu unit lagi di bawah pelbagai peringkat pelaksanaan;

Kelima:        600 unit rumah di bawah program My Beautiful New Homes atau MyBNHomes untuk isi rumah B40 antaranya di Terengganu, Pahang, Melaka, Johor, Sabah, Sarawak dan kawasan orang asli;

Keenam:      2 ribu unit rumah di bawah program MyDeposit untuk membantu pembayaran deposit, dan program MyHomes untuk pemaju menyediakan lebih banyak rumah mampu milik; serta

Ketujuh:      200 juta ringgit untuk penyelenggaraan dan pembaikan rumah, termasuk Tabung Penyelenggaraan 1Malaysia.

182.          Bagi menggalakkan lebih banyak pembinaan rumah mampu milik, skim step-up financing yang diperkenalkan oleh PR1MA, dipanjangkan kepada pemaju perumahan swasta, berdasarkan kriteria yang akan ditetapkan.

183.          Berkaitan rumah terbengkalai pula, dicadangkan pengecualian duti setem ke atas perjanjian pinjaman dan surat cara pindahmilik, diberikan kepada kontraktor penyelamat dan pembeli asal rumah terbengkalai, berkuatkuasa 1 Januari 2018 sehingga 31 Disember 2020.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

184.          Bagi tujuan menggalakkan pasaran sewaan rumah kediaman pula, buat kali pertama dalam tempoh 60 tahun,… Kerajaan mengumumkan,… pengecualian cukai ke atas pendapatan sewaan rumah kediaman sebanyak 50 peratus bagi pendapatan sewa sehingga dua ribu ringgit sebulan kepada individu rakyat Malaysia yang bermastautin di Malaysia.

185.          Pengecualian ini diberi bermula dari tahun taksiran 2018 hingga 2020. Kerajaan juga akan menggubal Akta Sewaan Rumah Kediaman untuk melindungi penyewa dan pemilik rumah.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

186.          Bagi menyediakan perkhidmatan kesihatan yang berkualiti, Kerajaan memperuntukkan hampir 27 bilion ringgit, meliputi:

Pertama:     2.5 bilion ringgit bagi bekalan ubat-ubatan dan 1.6 bilion ringgit untuk barangan consumable dan sokongan perubatan;

Kedua:         1.4 bilion ringgit bagi menaiktaraf dan menyelenggara fasiliti kesihatan, peralatan perubatan dan ambulan, termasuklah pembinaan dewan bedah secara modular di tiga hospital iaitu Hospital Muar, Banting dan Balik Pulau;

Ketiga:        Menaiktaraf perkhidmatan kardiologi dan kardiotorasik di Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah Kuala Terengganu dan Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah Alor Setar;

Keempat:    100 juta ringgit untuk menaik taraf hospital dan klinik termasuk sistem pendawaian;

Kelima:        50 juta ringgit untuk bantuan haemodialisis dengan subsidi 100 ringgit daripada keseluruhan kos 110 ringgit setiap sesi rawatan.

Maknanya, mulai 2018, pesakit berdaftar hanya membayar sepuluh ringgit sahaja bagi setiap sesi rawatan.

40 juta ringgit lagi diperuntukan bagi Tabung Bantuan Perubatan. Kedua-dua insentif ini khusus untuk golongan kurang berkemampuan;

Keenam:  10 juta ringgit untuk menampung kos perubatan bagi rawatan rare diseases yang kian meningkat, dan 30 juta ringgit disediakan bagi program Komuniti Sihat Perkasa Negara ke arah kesedaran terhadap kesan penyakit tidak berjangkit di 10 ribu kawasan seluruh negara; dan

Ketujuh: Sejumlah 50 juta ringgit diperuntukkan kepada Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme untuk memperkasa sektor kesihatan.

187.          Selanjutnya, Kerajaan akan membina hospital dan wad baharu meliputi:

Pertama:     Dua blok wad wanita dan kanak-kanak di Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan dan Hospital Putrajaya, dengan kapasiti 300 katil setiap satu, dengan kos satu bilion ringgit;

Kedua:         Pusat Kanser di Sungai Petani, dengan kos 500 juta ringgit, dengan kapasiti 200 buah katil;

Ketiga:        Blok klinik pakar dan wad baharu di Hospital Pulau Pinang, berkapasiti 300 buah katil, dengan kos 500 juta ringgit; dan

Keempat:    Pusat perkhidmatan perubatan forensik bertaraf antarabangsa di Hospital Kuala Lumpur, dengan kos 380 juta ringgit.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

188.          Berkaitan GST pula, bagi terus menambah baik pelaksanaannya, Kerajaan mencadangkan:

Pertama:     Semua pembekalan perkhidmatan oleh PBT tidak dikenakan GST, berkuatkuasa mulai 1 April 2018 atau 1 Oktober 2018 berdasarkan pilihan PBT;

Kedua:         Layanan GST berkadar sifar ke atas bahan bacaan, diseragam dan diperluaskan meliputi semua jenis majalah, komik, journal dan terbitan berkala mulai 1 Januari 2018;

Ketiga:        Operator kapal persiaran diberi pelepasan GST ke atas perkhidmatan pengendalian yang dibekalkan oleh operator pelabuhan di Malaysia. Pelepasan ini bermula 1 Januari 2018 sehingga 31 Disember 2020; dan

Keempat:    Pelepasan GST sepenuhnya diberi ke atas perkhidmatan pembinaan bangunan sekolah dan rumah ibadat, yang dibiayai melalui sumbangan derma yang diluluskan. Pelepasan ini berkuat kuasa bagi kontrak perkhidmatan pembinaan yang ditandatangani mulai 1 April 2017.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

189.          Bercakap tentang GST lagi, pihak Kerajaan minta, agar sudah-sudahlah dipolemikkan sebagai isu politik,… kerana terbukti GST menjadi penyelamat kepada ekonomi kita tahun ini, kerana tanpa kutipan GST 41 bilion ringgit ini, kita tidak dapat bayangkan macam mana negara boleh menampung perbelanjaan yang diperlukan untuk rakyat.

190.          Jelasnya, pihak pembangkang sampai hari ini tidak sepakat tentang keputusan menerima sistem GST, ada yang kata GST diterima tapi based on zero-rate,… dan yang terbaru dah nak kembali ke SST pula,…

Tapi hakikatnya, apa yang telah Kerajaan lakukan itu, terakam dalam sejarah sebagai langkah berani yang terbukti kebenarannya.

191.          Selanjutnya,…

Kelima:  Pelepasan GST diberi ke atas pengimportan peralatan berkaitan industri minyak dan gas di bawah satu perjanjian pajakan, dibekalkan oleh syarikat yang berada di Kawasan Ditetapkan iaitu Labuan, Langkawi dan Tioman kepada pelanggan di Malaysia,  mulai 1 Januari 2018;

Keenam:      Pelepasan GST diberi ke atas pengimportan big ticket items, seperti kapal terbang dan kapal laut, oleh syarikat penerbangan dan perkapalan yang berdaftar di Malaysia.

Pelepasan GST turut diberikan kepada syarikat di dalam industri minyak dan gas yang mengimport pelantar minyak atau struktur terapung. Langkah ini bermula 1 Januari 2018; dan

Ketujuh:      Perkhidmatan pengurusan dan penyelenggaraan bangunan kediaman berstrata yang dibekalkan oleh Badan Pengurusan Bersama dan perbadanan pengurusan yang kini tidak dikenakan GST, diperluas untuk meliputi perkhidmatan pengurusan dan penyelenggaraan yang dibekalkan oleh pemaju perumahan, mulai 1 Januari 2018.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

192.     PE-TUNJANG KEENAM: MEMPERSIAGA REVOLUSI PERINDUSTRIAN KEEMPAT DAN EKONOMI DIGITAL. Dunia kini di ambang The Fourth Industrial Revolution dan era digital economy, sehingga Kerajaan berusaha melaksanakan Dasar Digital Malaysia.

193.     Lantaran itu, sebagai menyokong aktiviti pelaburan dan perniagaan IR 4.0, Kerajaan akan menyediakan geran sepadan sebanyak 245 juta ringgit di bawah Dana Strategik Pelaburan Domestik bagi menaik taraf kemudahan Smart Manufacturing.

194.     Selanjutnya, Futurise Centre di Cyberjaya akan diperkukuhkan sebagai pusat sehenti syarikat korporat dan universiti, untuk membangunkan prototype produk serta melonjakkan daya inovasi.

195.     Berkait ini Tuan Yang Dipertua, Kerajaan akan memberi galakan cukai seperti berikut:

Pertama:         Melanjutkan tempoh insentif Elaun Modal Dipercepatkan sebanyak 200 peratus ke atas kelengkapan automasi dari tahun taksiran 2018 sehingga 2020;

Kedua:             Galakan Elaun Modal Dipercepatkan sebanyak 200 peratus, untuk sektor pengilangan dan perkhidmatan berkaitan pengilangan; dan

Ketiga:            Elaun Modal bagi peralatan ICT termasuk perbelanjaan pembangunan perisian komputer, layak dituntut sepenuhnya mulai tahun taksiran 2018 hingga 2020.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

196.     Walau semaju mana kita mengejar arus kemodenan negara, kita tetap wajib memelihara kelestarian alam sekitar, sebagai khazanah warisan tanah air anak cucu kita.

197.     Berkait ini, kita terkejut dengan tragedi tanah runtuh di Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang pada Sabtu lepas, yang telah menimbus lebih 20 mangsa, dan 11 daripadanya disahkan meninggal dunia. Dengan tidak disangka-sangka, terbitnya serangkap keluhan, bagi meratapi peristiwa ngeri itu.

198.     Yang terlebih syahdu, kerana ia dinukilkan sendiri oleh Ahli Parlimen DAP yang kita segani dari sebelah sana, Yang Berhormat Kepong, bertajuk, “Tanah Runtuh di Lereng Bukit” di ruangan Twitternya, yang berbunyi

Ibu jaga anak kan sakit,

Darah tubuh beban kesihatan,

Pemaju bina leretan bukit,

Tanah runtuh korban insan.

199.     Sebetulnya, apa kias yang YB Kepong ingin sampaikan, hanya Tuhan sahaja yang tahu,…

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

200.     Jadinya, untuk mempastikan pembangunan lestari, langkah berikut akan dilaksanakan:

Pertama:         Lima bilion ringgit disediakan di bawah Skim Pembiayaan Teknologi Hijau, bagi menggalakkan pelaburan industri teknologi hijau;

Kedua:             Melaksanakan Program Non-Revenue Water, untuk mengurangkan kadar purata kehilangan air dengan kos 1.4 bilion ringgit;

Ketiga:            Membina Off-River Storage sebagai sumber air alternatif dengan kos 1.3 bilion ringgit; dan

Keempat:           517 juta ringgit disediakan untuk rancangan tebatan banjir di seluruh negara.

201.     Berbalik kepada hal ekonomi digital, Malaysia bakal memiliki Digital Free Trade Zone yang pertama di luar negara China. DFTZ ini merangkumi e-Fulfilment Hub, Satellite Services Hub dan e-Service Platform bagi melonjakkan negara dalam perdagangan elektronik, dengan menjadikan KLIA sebagai gateway serantau.

202.     Fasa Pertama DFTZ mensasarkan penyertaan 1,500 PKS dalam ekonomi digital dan dijangka menarik pelaburan sebanyak 700 juta ringgit dengan mewujudkan 2,500 peluang pekerjaan. Untuk tujuan ini:

Pertama:         83.5 juta ringgit diperuntukkan bagi membiayai penyediaan infrastruktur fasa satu DFTZ di Aeropolis, KLIA; dan

Kedua:             Nilai de minimis bagi import, dinaikkan dari 500 ke 800 ringgit, untuk mencapai matlamat menjadikan Malaysia sebagai hab e-commerce serantau.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

203.     Selanjutnya, Kerajaan akan mewujudkan ekosistem yang kondusif untuk meraih manfaat inovasi, khususnya daripada cetusan idea start-up tempatan.

204.     Sukacita diumumkan Kerajaan akan memperluaskan pendekatan ‘regulatory sandbox’ bagi memudahkan syarikat menguji idea inovatif dan model perniagaan baharu, yang akan dilaksanakan oleh semua Regulator berkaitan.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

205.     PE-TUNJANG KETUJUH: MENINGKATKAN KECEKAPAN DAN PENYAMPAIAN GLC DAN PERKHIDMATAN AWAM.

206.     Selaras dengan falsafah pembangunan growth with equity, Malaysia berhasrat mencapai pertumbuhan ekonomi yang kukuh dengan pengagihan hasil ekonomi yang lebih saksama kepada rakyat.

207.     Bagi tujuan ini, syarikat GLC akan merintis teladan kepada sektor korporat melalui KPI bagi meningkatkan nisbah pampasan pekerja, selaras dengan pertumbuhan produktiviti seperti berikut:

Pertama:         GLC akan meningkatkan pengagihan keuntungan kepada pekerjanya, seperti menerusi pembayaran gaji dan elaun, secara berperingkat;

Kedua:             Memperkenalkan flexible benefits, yakni pekerja diberi pilihan untuk meningkatkan pendapatan boleh guna, dengan menukar kelayakan cuti tahunan dan kesihatan kepada ganjaran tunai;

Ketiga:            Menambah baik flexible work arrangements, untuk menggalakkan work-life balance melalui pengubahsuaian waktu bekerja mingguan, waktu kerja anjal dan kerja separa masa;

Keempat:        Memperkenalkan kemudahan lepasan cuti untuk menunaikan umrah;

Kelima:            Bagi menyokong ibu bapa bekerja, GLC akan menyediakan taska di pejabat utama, dan kemudahan pengurangan waktu bekerja untuk  pekerja wanita yang mengandung; dan

Keenam:     Meningkatkan pelaburan dalam latihan, khususnya melaksanakan kursus kemahiran digital untuk pekerja dan bantuan pendidikan untuk anak pekerja.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

208.     Berhubung hal penyampaian dalam mengutamakan kebajikan semua pihak termasuk warga emas, OKU dan kanak-kanak, sukacita Kerajaan mengumumkan bantuan 1.7 bilion ringgit kepada mereka, dan juga:

Pertamanya:           Menaikkan elaun warga emas 50 ringgit menjadi 350 ringgit sebulan, memanfaatkan hampir 144 ribu orang, dengan peruntukan 603 juta ringgit; dan

Keduanya:                       Menaikkan elaun OKU yang bekerja, tidak bekerja dan penjaga OKU sebanyak 50 ringgit sebulan, memanfaatkan lebih 163 ribu orang dengan peruntukan 100 juta ringgit.

209.     Selain itu, bagi melindungi kanak-kanak dari jenayah seksual, Kerajaan telah menubuhkan sebuah Mahkamah Jenayah Seksual Terhadap Kanak-Kanak, yang pertama seumpamanya di Asia Tenggara. Pada tahun hadapan, tiga lagi mahkamah akan ditubuhkan.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

210.     Kepada penjawat awam,… bagi memudahkan mereka memiliki rumah idaman, mulai 1 Januari 2018, Lembaga Pembiayaan Perumahan Sektor Awam akan melaksanakan:

Pertama:         Membenarkan pembiayaan LPPSA ke atas hartanah yang dibangunkan di atas tanah wakaf;

Kedua:             Memasukkan yuran guaman berkaitan penyediaan perjanjian pembiayaan perumahan sebagai sebahagian daripada skop pembiayaan LPPSA;

Ketiga:            Membenarkan pembiayaan perumahan bersama atau joint-loan daripada LPPSA, antara suami-isteri atau anak-anak, dengan syarat semua pemohon adalah anggota perkhidmatan awam; dan

Keempat:        Membenarkan pembiayaan perumahan bersama antara suami-isteri atau anak-anak, dengan syarat, sekurang-kurangnya seorang pemohon adalah anggota perkhidmatan awam,….

Manakala pemohon bersama bukan penjawat awam perlu menggunakan pembiayaan institusi kewangan atau agensi yang mempunyai skim pembiayaan perumahan sendiri, yang bersetuju menjadi pemegang gadaian kedua.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

211.     PE-TUNJANG KELAPAN: MENGIMBANGI PAR EXCELLENCE DUNIAWI DAN PAR EXCELLENCE UKHRAWI. Sesungguhnya, tiada siapa yang tahu dan dapat meramalkan apakah rupa bentuk, wajah dunia pada masa mendatang.

212.     Tapi pastinya, Allah Hu Ta’ala menyukai hamba-hambaNya yang terus berikhtiar dengan gigih, merancang masa depan demi kepentingan negara dan ummah seluruhnya.

213.     Berbekalkan mafhum Surah Al-A’raf ayat 96, di mana Tuhan akan melimpahkan rezeki dan keberkatan-Nya dari langit serta bumi, selagi penduduk dan rakyatnya beriman lagi bertaqwa.

214.     Sebab itulah dalam konteks negara ini, Kerajaan mensasarkan Malaysia akan menjadi sebuah negara yang:

Pertamanya:   High Income Advanced Economy pada tahun 2020;

Kedua:             Nilaian ekonomi dan dagangan semasa menjadi dua trillion ringgit pada tahun 2025;

Ketiga:    Menikmati impak dan manfaat IR 4.0 yang mula menampakkan kematangan signifikan pada tahun 2030;

Keempat: Watan yang lebih kompetitif lagi bersifat hampir zero defects pada tahun 2040; dan

Kelimanya: InsyaAllah,… kita akan mencapai sebuah

ketamadunan unggul di mana negara ini, bakal tersenarai dalam gelanggang kelompok 20 negara termaju lagi terbaik di persada dunia.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

215.      Hakikatnya, keluarga adalah institusi nukleus paling penting dalam membentuk nilai dan pengutuhan insan. Kerana, kesepaduan sosial lazimnya bermula daripada keharmonian dan kebahagiaan keluarga.

216.     Untuk itu, Kerajaan akan mewujudkan satu entiti baru yang dinamakan Institut Penyelidikan Sosio-Ekonomi atau SERI di bawah JPM, dan juga menaik taraf KITA-UKM atau Institut Kajian Etnik UKM sebagai institusi kebangsaan. Peruntukan yang sewajarnya akan disediakan oleh Kerajaan.

217.     SERI berperanan mengkaji dan menilai keberkesanan dasar serta pelaksanaan program juga projek pembangunan negara terhadap rakyat. Manakala KITA menyelaras pendidikan sosioekonomi peringkat negara dan mewujudkan indeks pembangunan sosial negara.

218.     Sebagai analoginya, jika EPU berperanan seumpama the brain dalam menggubal dasar ekonomi, manakala, ICU sebagai hands and legs dalam pemantauan projek, maka KITA dan SERI akan berfungsi sebagai the soul or the heart. Ia mencakupi aspek kerohanian dan jiwa, nilai-nilai murni serta program berbudaya tinggi untuk membina jati diri generasi TN50 bagi menangani gejala sosial.

219.     Sehubungan ini, Kerajaan sentiasa menghargai peranan NGO-NGO dan akan terus berkerjasama dengan mereka dalam menangani masalah sosial. Penekanan akan diberikan kepada institusi keluarga yang merupakan nukleus yang paling kecil, namun paling penting dalam pembangunan dan kesejahteraan masyarakat kita.

Tuan Yang Dipertua, saudara dan saudari,

220.     Saya tahu,… ramai yang ternanti-nanti pengumuman-pengumuman tertentu kepada 1.6 juta penjawat awam, sebagaimana yang saya war-warkan dalam Majlis Amanat Perdana Perkhidmatan Awam ke-15 pada awal bulan ini.

221.      Lantas, demi menghargai sumbangan para penjawat awam, khabar gembira yang ditunggu-tunggu itu sudah pun tiba. Saya mengumumkan:

Pertama:        Kenaikan pangkat time-based kali kedua bagi kumpulan pelaksana untuk tempoh 13 tahun, selepas kenaikan kali pertama;

Kedua:           Penjawat awam yang dibersarakan atas sebab kesihatan, akan menerima faedah persaraan seolah-olah pegawai berkhidmat sehingga umur persaraan wajib;

Ketiga:           Membenarkan Gantian Cuti Rehat melebihi 150 hari digunakan sebagai cuti rehat pada tahun persaraan;

Keempat:       Menaikkan kadar Cuti Rehat Khas bagi Pegawai Perkhidmatan Pendidikan daripada tujuh hari kepada 10 hari setahun;

Kelima:          Kerajaan buat pertama kalinya, bersetuju memberikan kemudahan tujuh hari cuti tanpa rekod sepanjang tempoh perkhidmatan bagi menunaikan umrah;

Keenam:        Untuk memberi fleksibiliti, Kerajaan akan menambah satu lagi Waktu Kerja Berperingkat iaitu bermula jam 9 pagi hingga 6 petang;

Ketujuh:        Pakar Perubatan Gred UD54 dan ke atas, yang telah diwartakan sekurang-kurangnya 4 tahun, serta memenuhi syarat tertentu, akan diberi kelonggaran satu hari seminggu untuk melaksanakan Waktu Kerja Fleksi;

Kelapan:        Penjawat awam wanita yang mengandung lima bulan ke atas, dibenarkan pulang lebih awal sejam.

Bagi melengkapi hasrat ini, suami yang bekerja Kerajaan juga dibenarkan pulang lebih awal sejam,… syaratnya, suami dan isteri mestilah bekerja di lokasi yang berdekatan;

Kesembilan:    Meningkatkan kelayakan cuti bersalin daripada 300 hari kepada 360 hari sepanjang perkhidmatan, tertakluk kepada maksimum 90 hari setahun;

Kesepuluh:      Pembelajaran sepanjang hayat pegawai perkhidmatan awam dengan melaksanakan Kursus Sarjana dan PhD secara in-house;

Kesebelas:       Menaikkan kadar pencen terendah kepada 1,000 ringgit sebulan melibatkan lebih 50 ribu pesara awam, dengan sekurang-kurangnya 25 tahun tempoh perkhidmatan; dan

Kedua belas:    Pemanjangan kemudahan perubatan untuk ibu dan bapa kepada pesara Kerajaan.

Kesemua langkah di atas berkuat kuasa mulai 1 Januari 2018.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

222.     Sebagai negara Islam yang progresif dan dinamik, Kerajaan menghargai bakti Ketua Kampung serta Tok Batin. Untuk itu, Kerajaan mengumumkan bayaran khas one-off sebanyak 1,500 ringgit melibatkan 9,800 orang. Seribu ringgit akan dibayar pada Januari 2018 dan 500 ringgit menjelang Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

223.     Bagi mempastikan kawasan kejiranan sentiasa selamat dan tenteram, 40 juta ringgit diperuntukkan untuk meneruskan pemberian geran Komuniti Penduduk 1Malaysia sehingga 10 ribu ringgit kepada persatuan penduduk yang berdaftar.

224.     Selain itu, 40 juta ringgit diperuntukkan untuk GiatMara melaksanakan program latihan dalam komuniti, khususnya di 50 kawasan Projek Perumahan Rakyat untuk fasa pertama.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

225.     Baru-baru ini, seluruh negara dikejutkan dengan insiden menyayat hati,… tragedi kebakaran Pusat Tahfiz Darul Quran Itti-fa-qiyah yang mengorbankan 23 nyawa. Setulus takziah kita ucapkan kepada keluarga yang terlibat.

226.     Demi memartabatkan syiar Islam dan pengutuhan jati insan, khususnya pengurusan sekolah tahfiz, diperuntukkan 50 juta ringgit kepada GiatMara bagi membaik pulih dan menyelenggara sistem pendawaian di semua sekolah tahfiz yang berdaftar di seluruh negara.

227.     Selain itu, bagi melatih pelajar sekolah tahfiz supaya lebih berkemahiran, Skim Latihan Kemahiran GiatMara akan diperkenalkan.

228.     Di samping itu, selain peruntukan 588 juta ringgit bagi bayaran elaun bulanan kepada imam, bilal, guru KAFA dan guru takmir yang diterima selama ini, untuk lebih menghargai mereka termasuk ‘Tok Siak’,  Kerajaan sukacita mengumumkan,…

Bayaran khas one-off sebanyak 1,500 ringgit kepada mereka. Seribu ringgit dibayar pada Januari 2018 dan 500 ringgit lagi menjelang Hari Raya Aidilfitri, memanfaatkan lebih 65 ribu orang dengan peruntukan hampir 100 juta ringgit.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

229.     Demikianlah moga kita dapat berasakan, bak kata orang tua-tua, sejuk Dewan Parlimen Yang Mulia ini dek redup cuaca petang, agarnya Tuhan memayung-mayungi dan merahmat-rahmati pembentangan Bajet 2018 ini.

230.     Mengambil iktibar daripada sirah perjuangan para Anbiya’, golongan solihin dan seluruh kehebatan sejarah bangsa kita sendiri, malah, turut dipesan oleh Imam Ghazali dan Bapak Hamka bahawa,… apalah guna kita hanya kaya harta, tetapi miskin jiwa.

231.     Akan tetapi, apa yang Kerajaan mahukan adalah, sebuah bangsa yang bukan sahaja hebat fizikalnya, bahkan kaya jiwa dan kaya pekertinya, yakni Par Excellence Duniawi dan Par Excellence Ukhrawi.

232.     Pucuk pangkalnya, sepanjang berbulan-bulan yang lalu, segala kerja keras dan titik peluh Kerajaan secara kolektif, melibatkan semua Kementerian dan agensi, pihak swasta, NGO, para belia, kumpulan profesional, dan,… ter-amat utama pelbagai lapisan rakyat yang turut menyumbang idea dan cadangan melalui pelbagai platform dan saluran, dalam merangka Naskhah Besar ini.

233.     Kerana itulah, belanjawan ini mencipta tawarikh sebagai sebuah Bajet yang paling inklusif pernah dipersembahkan.

234.     Semuanya, tidak lain dan tidak bukan telah dikarang dan disusun dalam memenuhi tuntutan DHO’-RU-RIYYAT, HAA-JI-YAT dan TAH-SI-NI-YAT, demi mensejahterakan kehidupan rakyat, sekaligus memakmurkan negara.

235.     Maka, Tuan Yang Dipertua serta seluruh rakyat Malaysia, pada hemah saya, selaku Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan, inilah,….. belanjawan yang tidak pernah diperucapkan sedemikiannya semenjak saya mengambil alih tampuk kepimpinan negara ini, kerana ianya bersifat holistik dan sarat dengan falsafah,… dan secara peribadinya,… boleh ditanda sejarah sebagai “IBU – SEGALA BAJET”.

236.     Sesungguhnya, bagi pihak Kerajaan, saya berani berkata demikian, kerana, pada Bajet kali ini, telah terhimpun dan terungkap dalamnya pelbagai premis yang menjadi asas kepada sebuah Bajet Komprehensif, mengambil hitung seawal kepentingan bayi yang masih dalam kandungan sehingga lahir ke dunia ini, sampailah urusan masa hadapan negara.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

237.     Oleh semuanya itu, maka, ter-Nyahlah segala apapun bentuk Keraguan, yang cuba dipolemikkan oleh Pakatan pembangkang.

238.     Realitinya, pakatan pembangkang-lah sebenarnya yang selama ini,… berada dalam Keraguan. Mereka ragu dengan kepimpinan mereka,… mereka curiga-mencurigai antara satu sama lain,… malah,  mereka saling guna-memperguna sesama sendiri,… dengan izin Tuan Yang Dipertua dalam Bahasa Inggeris there is no certainty in political leadership, how can they be trusted to provide a sound economic leadership.

Waima, kononnya mahu menghapuskan BR1M, kini menyokong pula,… nak meniadakan GST, tapi kini, nak mengekalkan pula dengan zero-rate dan tambah balik SST,… nak memotong cukai itu dan cukai ini,… nak menghapuskan pinjaman PTPTN, tapi kini ternyata nak diadakan kembali,… nak memperkenalkan subsidi minyak, tapi kini beralih kepada subsidi bersasar,…  dengan izin sekali lagi bak kata orang putih, THE ONLY THING CONSISTENT WITH THE OPPOSITION IS THAT THEY ARE CONTINUOUSLY IN-CON-SIS-TENT.

Apa yang kita sering dengar, asyik-asyik U-turn,… asyik-asyik u-turn,… and more u-turn,… sehingga segalanya membuat pemikiran rakyat dikeliru, didamak dan diracuni.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

239.     Lalu, syukur setingginya dipanjatkan ke hadrat Allah Hu Taala, kerana berkat kegigihan usaha Kerajaan selama ini, dikurniakan hasil bagi dituai dan dinikmati oleh rakyat Malaysia sekalian.

240.     Kepada Penjawat Awam, yang dinanti-nanti telah pun menjelma. Bagi menyanjung tinggi sifat wala’ dan kesetiaan Tuan-Tuan dan Puan-Puan, dalam mendokong kemajuan negara serta melaksanakan sistem penyampaian perkhidmatan dengan cekap lagi berkesan kepada rakyat,… maka sukacitanya saya mengumumkan,….

Bayaran khas sebanyak 1,500 ringgit kepada semua penjawat awam. Bayaran ini akan diberikan dua kali, iaitu seribu ringgit pada awal Januari 2018, dan 500 ringgit lagi menjelang Hari Raya Aidil Fitri tahun hadapan.

Manakala tidak pernah dilupakan, kepada pesara

Kerajaan, bayaran khas sebanyak 750 ringgit, iaitu 500

ringgit dibayar pada Januari 2018, dan 250 ringgit lagi

menjelang Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

Saudara dan Saudari Sahabat Seperjuanganku Sekalian,

241.     Oleh itu, biarpun kita diherdik-herdik dan ditikam-tikam,… tak sedikit pun kan goyah Barisan ini,… kerana kita yakin bahawa, rakyat kini semakin bijak menilai yang mana satu kaca dan yang mana satu intan.

242.     Terlebih penting, pabila rakyat menghakimi dengan bijak nanti, dan terus bersatu hati dengan Kerajaan ini, barulah terbentang luas masa hadapan Malaysia yang cerah, saujana mata memandang.

243.     Bagai disesuaikan dengan kalam Megat Terawis satu ketika dulu,… bila rakyat dan Kerajaan menjadi satu, barulah negara gagah perkasa kerana,…

Pisau di tangan kita, mentimun pun di tangan kita,… kalau nipis dihiris,… maka nipislah jadinya,… kalau tebal dihiris,… maka teballah jadinya…

Tuan Yang Dipertua, Saudara dan Saudari, Rakyat Malaysi

Yang Dikasihi,

244.     Menyudahi kalam, dalam melakar dan mencarta titian masa depan negara, seumpama membidak buah-buah catur. Kita harus membaca gerakan dengan cermat dan mengatur strategi dengan penuh berhati-hati.

245.     Dan segalanya hanya mampu diperbuat dan boleh dicapai dengan adanya kerjasama ikhlas sepasukan. Bertuahlah saya kerana mempunyai, bukan sekadar seorang Timbalan Perdana Menteri, tapi jauh daripada itu, seorang sahabat yang setia,… Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

246.     Termustahak juga segala wala’ dan sokongan tidak berbelah bahagi yang diberikan kepada saya oleh Anggota-anggota Jemaah Menteri, Pimpinan-Pimpinan Parti Komponen dalam menakhoda bahtera Malaysia ini.

247.     Lalunya, bersumpah dan berjanjilah,… bersumpah dan berjanjilah bahawa, kalaupun terpenggal putus tangan dari badan,… sekalipun lumpuh kaki tidak bermaya,… amanah dan harapan rakyat yang kita genggam jangan sekali-kali terlepas dan tergadai kepada pihak lawan.

248.     Ayuhlah,… kita wajib tetap menggigit amanah yang diberikan itu, dengan taring-taring dan geraham-geraham masing-masing,… sampai ketitisan darah yang terakhir,… membawa Barisan Nasional,…. menuju kemenangan besar dalam Pilihanraya Umum Ke-14 nanti. InsyaAllah.

249.     KepadaMu ya Allah, kami berdoa dan berserah. Selamat dan afiatkan tubuh Malaysia, zahir dan batin.

Tuan Yang Dipertua,

Saya mohon mencadangkan.

Wabillahi Taufik Wal Hidayah Wassalamualaikum

Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh

*****************

Prime Minimister Najib embarked on several strategic economic development programs in the form of Economic Transformation Plan and Government Transformation Plan, a year after he came at the helm of the nation.

Carefully crafted of multiple pronged initiatives where leashed and driven. The result have been proven at present day.

Income per capita of Malaysians now has passed the RM40,000 mark. The economy is quite quickly coming up to RM1.35 trillion.

Bank Negara Malaysia foreign reserves stand at over RM101.5 billion, which is able to pay for 7.5 months of imports.

Affordable housing is still very much in Prime Minister Najib’s sight for the socio-economic transformation agenda. Homes would be built for second generation FELDA settlers with the assistance of SPNB.

What is most interesting is eye balling on making the nation a high value economy. Domestic investments is definitely the mainstay engine of growth.

It is expected to grow by 6.7% and would contribute 25.5% of GDP.

What is more interesting out of the domestic investment of RM370b, RM260b is generated from private sector.  The bigger private sector investment manifest the confidence on the leadership, economic policies and  bullish projections by many firms.

The private sector driven economy is also translated from the goodies that Federal Government would provide to SMEs and petty traders through various funds such as TEKUN, which would get RM500 million and Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) RM200million.

Even the Non Malays are provided for. The Chinese SMEs would get RM50 million from KOJADI and the Indian SME’s of RM50 million through the special unit under Prime Minister’s Department.

The role of SME is very important, as part of Prime Minister Najib’s strategy for a high value economy which is primarily based on entrepreneurism and growth of business. 34% of the GNP is attributable to SME and domestic economy.

The income tax bracket also has been shifted. It means from the existing 2.2million tax payers out of 14million workforce, additional 261,000 tax payers would now be relieved from personal income tax.

Despite the tweak, Inland Revenue Board is expected to increase the collection to RM172 billion for 2018.


Mengagalkan kepentingan Negara

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Tindakan Pengerusi Pakatan Harapan Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad dan beberapa orang kepimpinan tertinggi bertemu Duta Besar dan Wakil Diplomatik negara-negara EU merupakan mengagalkan kepentingan Negara, semata-mata agenda politik sempit mereka.

Kenyataan Menteri Luar Negara:

*********

Menurut Menteri Luar Negara Dato Seri Anifah Aman “Adalah usaha-usaha pihak Pakatan Harapan merupakan satu politik terdedak yang amat dikesali kerana mengundang campurtangan dan tekanan kuasa asing keatas nilai-nilai dan princip amalan demokrasi di Malaysia”.

Dr. Mahathir jelas menunjukkan sift munafiq kerana semasa menjadi Perdana Menteri selama 22 tahun 3 bulan dan 15 hari, beliau amat menentang campurtangan dan tekanan negara asigna, terutama dalaman isu dalaman negara dan amalan demokrasi.

Contohnya semasa episod pasca pemecatan Banduan Sodomi Anwar Ibrahim dari jawatan Timbalan Perdana Menteri.

Ucapan Naib Presiden Amerika Syarikat Al Gore semasa sidang kemuncak APEC mengundang serangan hebat oleh pentadbiran Dr. Mahathir.

Laporan BBC:

World: Asia-Pacific

Malaysia hits back at Gore

Mr Gore’s comments have not impressed his hosts


Paul Royallreports

In an escalating war of words, Malaysia has accused the United States of inciting efforts to overthrow the government of Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.

Foreign Minister Abdullah Badawi said said remarks made by US Vice-President were “most unwarranted”.

Foreign Minister Abdullah Badawi: “Malaysians do not take kindly to sanctimonious sermonising”

He said it was “abhorrent” that the US Government should incite “certain elements within the country” to use undemocratic means in order to overthrow a constitutionally elected administration.

Earlier Mr Gore provoked fury amongst Malaysian government ministers by expressing support for the country’s reform movement. He went on to reiterate the need for democracy and freedom.

Malaysia Crisis Section

Mr Gore said he was proud to have delivered the message.

“Moving into the 21st century with a strong economy really requires democracy and self-government,” he said.

South East Asia Correspondent Simon Ingram: “Expressions of rage”

“That is the American message and I am proud to deliver it here and anywhere I go.”

At a dinner for Apec business leaders on Monday night, Mr Gore delivered what correspondents say was a stinging rebuke to Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad by praising the “brave people” of Malaysia calling for “reformasi”.

Rallying call

The term has become the slogan for supporters of the sacked Deputy Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim whose trial on charges of corruption and sexual misconduct has become the focus for unprecedented anti-government protests.

Other delegations have moved to stop the row disrupting the economic business of the summit. New Zealand prime minister Jenny Shipley criticised what she termed megaphone diplomacy.

[ image: Reformasi is the rallying call for Anwar's supporters]
Reformasi is the rallying call for Anwar’s supporters

Intense security precautions are in place in Kuala Lumpur to ensure that the two-day gathering of the 21 nation forum passes off without distraction.

Mr Anwar’s trial has been suspended for the duration of the summit.

Government ‘totally disgusted’

Malaysian ministers denounced Mr Gore’s comments as unwarranted interference in their internal affairs.

Trade Minister, Rafidah Aziz, a close ally of Dr Mahathir, said Mr Gore did not understand what was happening in Malaysia and his message was to condone riots and demonstrations.

Rafidah Aziz: “A totally disgusting and inappropriate speech”

“From my point of view as a government minister, we are totally disgusted,” she said.

Education Minister Najib Abdul Razak also criticised the Vice-President for what he called “an absolutely intolerable state of behaviour and unbecoming of a leader of the United States.”

Summit overshadowed

The furore following Mr Gore’s speech has overshadowed the unveiling of a $10bn aid package from Japan and the US intended to help the region regain some of its economic lustre.

The Japanese government has responded coolly to the diplomatic row, with the Prime Minister, Keizo Obuchi, saying he hoped “law and justice” would solve the political upheaval in Malaysia.

Singaporean Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong said Mr Gore’s comments were inappropriate to the meeting: “Politics should not get in the way of Apec.”

Al Gore: “My point is very simple”

New Zealand Prime Minister Jenny Shipley also said she was worried that “megaphone diplomacy” was threatening the economic group.

“Apec is an economic forum where cooperation is being sought,” she said. “Clearly there are some pressing bilateral issues that countries want to raise here in Malaysia but it should not be at the expense of Apec.”

New Zealand will play host to the next meeting of Apec leaders in 1999.

******************


TH announces higher Hibah

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Tabung Haji announces higher Hibah and Bonus for depositors, amidst higher cost of operations and impairment of some loss making investments.

That is a good sum, for over 9 million TH depositors and aspirant pilgrims. TH currently managing a savings scheme under the Wadiah principle, of over RM70b worth of funds.

It is an increase of 5.88% for Annual Hibah and 16.67% for Hajj special Hibah over previous year’s. The Gross Income is RM4.5billion.

For the last financial year, TH provided RM296m in subsidy against direct cost of performing Hajj, so that the charge for pilgrims could be maintained at RM9,980.

Include this year’s Hajj season, TH would have subsidized over RM1.5b in direct cost, for over 215,000 pilgrims muasassah scheme.

The subsidy had been raised from profits derived from shariah compliant investments.

Overall subsidiary contributed RM1.156m or 26% of total income. Mainly investments in financial services such Bank Islam, TH properties, TH Hotel Residence, TH Plantations and other investments abroad.

Another change is that our hibah bases change from lowest minimum balance to lowest yearly balance to encourage depositors to save for long term rather than short term bcos it is back to tab haji original objective of saving little by little to perform hajj.

TH has also impaired THHE of RM208m and two other portfolios Oil and Gas industry which are Scomi Energy Services and Alam Maritim totalling RM170m due to the poor global performance in the sector.

In all, TH impaired RM470m in losses.

Prudent management and tight investment policies are part of TH key success to increase Hibah to depositors, amidst growing subsidy for direct Hajj operations with objective to provide affordable pilgrimage for Malaysian Muslims.

I

 

Realism of Dr Mahathir as the next Prime Minister

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The reality of Pakatan Harapan Chairman Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad to be offered as the next Prime Minister in the event they manage to control Dewan Rakyat is unlikely, considering his relationship with His Majesty Seri Paduka Yang DiPertuan Agong XV.

Bernama story:

Kelantan palace revokes award for Mahathir

KOTA BHARU — Feb. 8, 2018: The Kelantan Palace has revoked the Darjah Kerabat Yang Amat Dihormati (Al-Yunusi) title awarded to former prime minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad in 2002 effective last Tuesday.

State Secretary Datuk Mohd. Faudzi Che Mamat confirmed this when contacted today but did not reveal the reason.

Mahathir, who is Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia chairman, has been informed.

Yesterday, the palace revoked the datuk awards of Parti Amanah Negara vice-president Husam Musa and Kelantan Amanah chairman Wan Abd Rahim Wan Abdullah. — Bernama

******************

Dr Mahathir is the first former Prime Minister whose State Awards has been withdrawn, upon the wish of HRH Ruler.

In this case, the Ruler is His Majesty Sultan Muhammad V, who currently resides the office of the Seri Paduka Baginda Yang DiPertuan Agong V.

The various arguments towards the appointment of a Prime Minister, are in the context of the relevant articles in the Federal Constitution, as well as the precedent from the British experience.

It is no mystery that Dr. Mahathir’s relationship with the various Rulers has been prickly and even contentious, ever since he was the Fourth Prime Minister.

Lately as a Statesman, he has been reprimanded by His Majesty Sultan of Johor and HRH Sultan Selangor, for his political speeches and manoeuvres.

These tiffs and riffs, including the insult HRH Sultan Selangor openly expressed for the speech made at Anti-Kleptocracy Rally last October and this withdrawal of State Awards by Kelantan, would be greatly unnoticed.

The Star story:

Selangor Sultan slams Dr M


Play Video

PETALING JAYA: Nine months after being berated by the Johor Sultan for claiming that Malaysia is being sold off to China, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has incurred a similar wrath, this time from the Selangor Sultan.

Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah issued a stinging rebuke to Dr Mahathir for comparing the Bugis community to pirates during the “Love Malaysia, End Kleptocracy” rally at Padang Timur on Oct 14.

The Selangor Royal Council said in a statement yesterday that the Sultan took a serious view of, was angered by and was very upset at Dr Mahathir’s words, which are seen as trying to incite Malaysians to hate, insult and belittle the Bugis.

The Council also said that an investigation and legal action under the Sedition Act 1948 or any other related law should be carried out against Dr Mahathir.

He said two investigation papers had been opened over the remarks – made during the rally, as well as at a talk in Shah Alam on July 17 – after police reports were lodged by members of the public.

“We are investigating the matter under the Sedition Act,” he said, adding that the probe was almost completed.

The Selangor Royal Council statement, issued by its secretary Hanafisah Jais on behalf of the Sultan, said that based on a video clip of the speech which went viral on social media, Dr Mahathir’s allegation clearly insults the Bugis by alleging that they are descended from pirates, thieves and criminals.

“The members of the Selangor Royal Council regard the statement as extremely excessive and can trigger hatred and ill-feelings of the people against the Bugis to the extent that it creates chaos.

“This allegation indirectly insults the ancestry of the Selangor Sultanate which is descended from the Bugis.”

Dr Mahathir had claimed that Malaysia was being led by a prime minister descended from “Bugis pirates”, a dig at Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The Council, in its statement, said historical facts prove that the Selangor Sultanate descended from the Bugis, who were warriors who defended Islam and peace throughout the Malay archipelago.

“Tun Dr Mahathir as a former prime minister and who led the country’s administration for 22 years should be more careful in issuing any statement and should be more informed about the historical facts on Bugis ancestry,” it said.

The statement added that the Selangor Sultan reminded all parties, especially politicians, to refrain from ridiculing race and ancestry for political capital because it could jeopardise harmony and unity in the country.

In an exclusive interview with The Star in January, Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar accused Dr Mahathir of fear-mongering by playing racial politics that have no place in the southern state.

The Johor Ruler said he was “deeply offended and hurt” by the political spin against mainland China investments in the state.

He singled out Dr Mahathir for “putting political interests above Malaysian interests, particularly Johor.”

Read more at https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/11/03/selangor-sultan-slams-dr-m-ruler-angered-by-expms-pirate-slur-against-the-bugis/#kEHUQzb2WVvkjxUs.99

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Especially by the majority of the Malays, who have placed the sensitivities of insulting any Rulers as a taboo.

The hope of Pakatan Harapan controlling the Dewan Rakyat is substantially impaired with failure to get the support of the majority of the Malays. This is very clear when Dr. Mahathir formed PPBM as the specific vehicle to win the support of the Malays.

In the Thirteenth Parliament, the Malays through UMNO control 72 seats. That is 32.4% of the MPs. Currently, Pakatan Harapan MPs stand only at 74 seats.

That includes one from each PAN and PKR MPs, representing voters from Kelantan.

Never before in the history of Malaysia ever such a Malay who has yet been given any legal authority somewhat being treated like a persona non grata, by so many HRH Rulers within the shortest span of time.

Menongkah Maju, Menambahkan Mutu

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Kemelut yang hangat diperdebatkan kebelakangan ini mengenai hasrat Proton untuk mempertingkatkan mutu sistem sokongan jualan prodük motorkar nasional merupakan agenda strategik yang sebenarnya akan menguntungkan golongan pengedar dan pembekal eko-sistem Proton, terutama dikalangan pengusaha Bumiputera.

Laporan Utusan Malaysia:

Pekema temui pengedar, vendor esok

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KUALA LUMPUR 13 Feb. – Persatuan Pengimport dan Peniaga Ken­deraan Melayu Malaysia (Pekema) memahami hasrat Proton untuk menjadikan pengedar keretanya ber­kembang seiring dengan langkah pembaharuan syarikat, namun masih terdapat beberapa isu yang perlu dijelaskan dengan teliti.

ZAINUDDIN ABDUL RAHMAN

Presidennya, Datuk Zainuddin Abdul Rahman berkata, sehubu­ngan itu, Pekema akan mengadakan pertemuan dengan semua wakil jualan bumiputera esok di ibu pejabatnya untuk mendengar sendiri masalah yang dihadapi semua pengedar dan vendor.

Katanya, pihaknya juga menggesa kerajaan khususnya Kementerian Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri serta Kementerian Kewangan mengadakan pertemuan dengan mereka secepat mungkin.

“Secara dasarnya, kami amat mengalu-alukan Geely sebagai rakan strategik Proton dan berharap usaha sama ini berjaya menaikkan semula Proton sebagai kereta nasional kebanggaan rakyat Malaysia.

“Dalam konteks ini, Pekema menyokong penuh usaha sama dengan Geely yang telah terbukti sebagaimana mereka berjaya memulihkan semula syarikat Volvo sebelum ini.

“Cuma dalam isu ini, Pekema tidak mahu jadi seperti lagu Anak kecil main api yang mana hak keistimewaan orang Melayu dan agenda bumiputera yang termaktub dalam perlembagaan tidak diambil kira,” katanya dalam ke­nyataan di sini hari ini.

Menurut beliau, Pekema sama sekali tidak menafikan 3S adalah baik untuk jangka panjang tetapi di dalam konteks Proton dan keadaan pasaran ketika ini, Proton perlu memberi masa dan ruang sehingga terbukti jualannya kembali rancak sebelum meminta wakil jualan sedia ada menaik taraf kepada 3S sebelum Oktober 2018.

Pekema jelasnya berpendapat, pe­ngu­rusan baharu Proton tidak harus menekan wakil jualan untuk menaik taraf kepada 3S dalam masa yang singkat mengambil kira keada­an ekonomi pada masa ini.

“Kejayaan Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn. Bhd. (Perodua) yang menguasai 39.8 peratus pasaran kereta dengan jualan 204,887 buah pada tahun lalu sebahagian besar dicapai me­lalui wakil jualan Perodua 1S dan juga 3S,” katanya.

“Ini menunjukkan konsep 1S masih boleh menyumbang kepada kejayaan jualan sesuatu organisasi tanpa perlu kesemua wakil jualan menjadi 3S,” katanya.

Artikel Penuh: http://www.utusan.com.my/bisnes/korporat/pekema-temui-pengedar-vendor-esok-1.608861#ixzz5751bq7Ea
© Utusan Melayu (M) Bhd

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Sebelum itu, Menteri Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri Dato’ Seri Mustapha Mohamad mengumumkan bahawa kepentingan pengedar Proton terutama dari kalangan pengusaha Bumiputera akan diambil kira dan perhalusi.

Laporan Utusan Malaysia:

Kerajaan prihatin 
masalah pengedar Proton

2
MUSTAPA MOHAMED
MUSTAPA MOHAMED

Menteri Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri, Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed berkata, sehubungan itu, beliau akan mengadakan pertemuan dalam tempoh terdekat dengan wakil-wakil dan persatuan pengedar sebelum mengambil sebarang keputusan termasuk mengenai isu dana yang dihadapi pengedar-pengedar berkenaan.

Katanya, kerajaan juga amat memahami hasrat Proton yang mahukan para pengedarnya menaik taraf daripada pusat jualan 1S kepada 3S atau 4S (Jualan, Alat Ganti, Servis dan Survei) bagi membolehkan mereka bersaing dalam industri automotif.

“Secara dasarnya, saya sering berjumpa mereka dari semasa ke semasa dan kali ini saya akan jumpa mereka (termasuk pengedar dan vendor) dalam masa terdekat. Untuk pengedar pula, saya dah lama tak jumpa, cuma ada melalui surat dan menemui beberapa pengedar secara individu. Tetapi persatuan pengedar belum jumpa lagi.

“Dalam masa sama, kita akui cabaran yang dihadapi oleh mereka dan kita (kerajaan) tahu mengenai cabaran-cabaran ini. Sudah pasti, dalam isu ini, kerajaan amat ambil berat kerana kita mahu sama ada mereka yang jual kereta Proton atau komponen menjadi usahawan yang berjaya walaupun perniagaan ini banyak cabarannya.

“Mana-mana transformasi atau penambahbaikan yang dijalankan sudah tentu ada yang terkesan, ia sama seperti yang dihadapi oleh industri automotif,” katanya selepas majlis perasmian Program Inovasi Usahawan Muda SME Bank Y-Biz Challenge 2018 dan Permohonan Atas Talian ‘MySMEBank’.

Yang turut hadir, Pengerusi SME Bank, Tan Sri Faizah Mohd. Tahir dan Ketua Pegawai Operasi, Operasi dan Pengurusan Korporat Kumpulan SME Bank, Datuk Razman Mohd. Noor.

Semalam, Proton dalam kenyataannya menegaskan mat­la­matnya adalah agar pengedar-pengedar keretanya ber­kembang se­iring dengan langkah pembaharuan syarikat dan bukan mem­bebankan mereka apabila mewajibkan penukaran kepada 3S atau 4S.

DRB-Hicom memiliki 50.1 peratus dalam Proton dan 49.9 peratus oleh Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. Ltd. Suntikan ekuiti itu menyaksikan syarikat baharu ditubuhkan iaitu Proton Otomobil Nasional Sdn. Bhd. (PONSB) yang kini diterajui oleh Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif, Dr. Li Chunrong dan Timbalannya, Datuk Radzaif Mohamed.

Walaupun menjawab kesemua sembilan isu yang dikemukakan Presiden Persatuan Pengimport dan Peniaga Kenderaan Melayu Malaysia, Datuk Zainuddin Abdul Rahman dalam Mingguan Malaysia Ahad lalu, namun Proton mengakui dana yang besar diperlukan untuk naik taraf berkenaan.

Menurut Zainudin, pengedar perlu melabur antara RM3 juta hingga RM5 juta sedangkan jualan kereta Proton sekarang secara purata yang dapat dijual hanya sekitar 20 hingga 30 buah sebulan.

Tegas Zainudin, sekiranya tiada sebarang tindakan diambil dalam masa terdekat, lebih ba­nyak pengedar dan vendor akan menutup perniagaannya dalam tempoh lima hingga enam bulan kerana tertekan dengan syarat-syarat yang dikemukakan pe­ngurusan baharu Proton.

Antara faktor yang mendorong kepada penambahbaikan itu memandangkan sehingga kini 70 peratus pengedarnya di seluruh negara bersifat 1S dan ini telah menjejaskan imej Proton dari segi Indeks Kepuasan Jualan (SSI) dan Indeks Kepuasan Pelanggan (CSI).

Pengedar digalakkan menaik taraf pusat jualan mereka dalam tempoh antara 2018 hingga 2020. Sasaran 2018 ialah untuk mening­katkan dengan banyak pusat 3S di seluruh negara, seiring dengan pengenalan model baharu SUV Proton pada akhir tahun ini.

Ditanya mengenai isu dana, Mustapa bagaimanapun berkata, kerajaan hanya akan membuat keputusan selepas perjumpaan tersebut diadakan.

“Biar saya jumpa mereka dahulu dan selepas itu kita akan maklumkan apa yang kerajaan boleh lakukan,” katanya.

Artikel Penuh: http://www.utusan.com.my/bisnes/korporat/kerajaan-prihatin-8232-masalah-pengedar-proton-1.608856#ixzz5756BnXYY
© Utusan Melayu (M) Bhd

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Kegusaran ini berpunca kenyataan Presiden Pengimport dan Peniaga Kenderaan Melayu Malaysia (PEKEMA) Dato’ Zainuddin Abdul Rahman mengambarkan tindakan Proton kehadapan akan menekan pengedar motorkar nasional dikalangan pengusaha Melayu.

Laporan Utusan Malaysia:

Pengedar Bumiputera Proton tertekan

ISU yang membelenggu pengedar bumiputera bagi jenama kereta nasional, Proton dijangka lebih buruk sekiranya tiada sebarang tindakan segera diambil pihak bertanggungjawab. Malah, Presiden Pengimport dan Peniaga Kenderaan Melayu Malaysia (Pekema), Datuk Zainuddin Abdul Rahman tidak menolak kemungkinan nasib wakil jualan dan vendor bumiputera juga akan terjejas dengan teruk. “Saya rasa semuanya akan bungkus, mati,” katanya kepada wartawan Mingguan Malaysia, ZUNAIDAH ZAINON, baru-baru ini.

Pekema menerima banyak aduan daripada syarikat jualan bumiputera tentang dasar daripada pengurusan baru syarikat tersebut yang diterajui Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Proton Otomobil Nasional Sdn. Bhd. (PONSB), Dr. Li Chunrong sejak November lalu yang dikatakan banyak memberi tekanan kepada mereka dengan pentadbiran agak keras.

Lebih malang DRB-Hicom yang merupakan pemegang saham utama Proton yang diketuai oleh Pengarah Urusan Kumpulan, Datuk Sri Syed Faisal Albar yang sebelum ini memberi jaminan kedudukan bumiputera dalam Proton akan dijaga juga kelihatan tidak mampu berbuat apa-apa.

Dasar Proton terkini dilihat boleh memusnahkan sebahagian majoriti wakil jualan bumiputera dan perkhidmatan Proton sedia ada dalam usaha syarikat untuk menaik taraf kepada pusat pengedaran dan servis di bawah satu bumbung.

Bagaimanapun, beliau menegaskan ia bukan usaha untuk memburukkan imej Proton atau sebaliknya. Ini kerana ia merupakan satu agenda bumiputera yang perlu diperingatkan semula, sejajar dengan tujuan penubuhan Proton lebih 30 tahun lalu, tegas beliau dalam wawancara ini.


MINGGUAN: Apa sebenarnya kebimbangan utama dalam isu ini?

ZAINUDDIN: Pada mesyuarat agung Pekema pada 27 Januari lalu, ada syarikat wakil jualan Proton yang merupakan ahli Pekema telah membangkitkan masalah yang mereka hadapi. Jadi dari situ, kita minta Proton dan kerajaan ambil tahu mengenai kepentingan agenda bumiputera yang tidak diendahkan lagi dan tidak menjadi keutamaan kepada pengurusan baru Proton. Kami lihat Proton telah lari daripada tujuan asal yang membawa kepada penubuhan Proton dulu. Apa yang kita risau, dalam Proton sendiri pun semuanya dikuasai oleh Geely.

Kita bukan tidak sokong pembabitan Geely kerana kita tahu tujuannya untuk pulihkan semula Proton tetapi yang menjadi masalah, apabila pengurusan tertinggi semuanya telah diambil alih dan dikuasai mereka yang kini telah melaksanakan dasar-dasar baru yang menekan wakil-wakil jualan. Dan wakil jualan bumiputera lebih terkesan memandangkan kira-kira 85 peratus daripada mereka masih lagi bertaraf 1S (Jualan). Sekarang pun mereka sukar untuk bersaing dengan pengedar bukan bumiputera apatah lagi dengan dasar kuku besi’, bagaimana mereka dapat bertahan?

Apa isu lain yang dibangkitkan pengedar-pengedar ini?

ZAINUDDIN: Ada sembilan isu utama yang mereka mahu kita ketengahkan bagi mengelakkan wakil bumiputera terus terbeban dan berhadapan dengan dilema.

1Tempoh yang singkat iaitu kurang setahun untuk dinaik taraf daripada 1S kepada 3S (Jualan, Servis dan Alat Ganti) bagi membolehkan wakil jualan ini menjual model baharu Geely-Proton, Boyue. Untuk naik taraf ini sahaja, pengedar perlu melabur antara RM3 juta hingga RM5 juta sedangkan jualan kereta Proton sekarang secara purata yang dapat dijual hanya sekitar 20-30 buah sebulan. Ada banyak faktor kereta tidak boleh dijual terutamanya disebabkan bank ketatkan syarat pinjaman dan wujudnya ‘double-standard’ oleh pihak bank terhadap Proton berbanding jenama kereta yang lain. Jenama lain lebih mudah mendapat kelulusan pinjaman berbanding jenama Proton.

2 Pengurangan margin kepada tiga peratus berbanding empat peratus sebelum ini. Walaupun ada beberapa insentif galakan yang hampir mustahil, apatah lagi Proton tetapkan sasaran jualan yang sukar dicapai dalam keadaan pasaran sekarang.

3Mengenakan pelbagai caj dan faedah kepada wakil jualan sekiranya kereta tidak dijual dalam tempoh 14 hari. Faedah akan dikenakan sebanyak 10.35 peratus setahun pada hari ke-15 dan seterusnya.

4Fasiliti kewangan iaitu PAR (Payment After Registration) akan dimansuhkan pada 1 Mac 2018 pasti turut membebankan para wakil jualan dalam situasi sekarang yang mana jualan semakin merosot sehingga tidak dapat menampung kos operasi bulanan. Kita mohon Proton teruskan fasiliti PAR ini. Kita tidak mahu kemudahan ini ditarik balik kerana membantu syarikat jualan dalam pasaran yang penuh kesukaran.

5Proton juga mengenakan sistem ‘block’ di mana stok yang masih belum terjual dan belum dijelaskan pembayaran kepada Proton selepas tempoh 60 hari, akan menyebabkan sistem wakil jualan disekat operasinya. Segala urusan agihan stok juga disekat. Ini akan menjejaskan proses perjalanan urus niaga dan memberikan imej yang tidak baik kepada para pelanggan. Oleh itu Proton perlu bertimbang rasa dan eloklah diteruskan pemberian kemudahan kepada wakil jualan agar dapat meningkatkan jualan bulanan, bukan mengenakan berbagai-bagai sekatan kepada wakil-wakil jualan.

6Proton dilihat bergantung kepada model SUV baru yang bernama Boyue bagi mengembalikan pasaran Proton. Kita doakan Proton berjaya namun, bolehkah model baru ini kembali meningkatkan jualan Proton memandangkan dengan harga anggaran RM100,000, pengguna mempunyai banyak pilihan untuk membeli kereta jenama lain yang lebih mereka yakini.

7Pemberian diskaun khas sebanyak 10 peratus yang diberikan kepada Persatuan Hokkien, kakitangan Petronas dan DRB-Hicom dan institusi kewangan (termasuk ahli keluarga terdekat) juga menjejaskan jualan kenderaan dalam kalangan wakil jualan, ini kerana pembeli hanya boleh membeli daripada pengedar Proton sendiri bukan daripada wakil jualan. Jelas ini satu diskriminasi kepada wakil jualan kerana mereka tidak dapat memberi diskaun khas.

8Proton juga perlu bertegas mengawal persaingan yang tidak sihat sesama wakil jualan Proton. Proton perlu mengambil tindakan terhadap wakil jualan yang memberi diskaun yang melampau yang kebanyakannya dilakukan oleh wakil bukan bumiputera dan ini telah pun membunuh banyak wakil jualan bumiputera yang terpaksa tutup kerana tidak mampu bersaing dan menghadapi kerugian yang berterusan. Pengurusan dilihat berpeluk tubuh dan tidak buat apa-apa untuk mengawal persaingan yang tidak sihat ini.

9Orang yang menjaga perancangan dan pembangunan wakil jualan Proton diketuai oleh seorang bukan bumiputera yang tentunya tidak mempunyai jiwa untuk membantu bumiputera. Beliau telah memberi berbagai tekanan dan tidak memberi pilihan kepada wakil jualan bumiputera 1S dalam usaha untuk naik taraf kepada 3S. Tidak ada kompromi atau rundingan.

Sebelum adanya dasar-dasar baru ini, bagaimana situasi wakil jualan Proton?

ZAINUDDIN: Sekitar 2015 hingga 2016, saya difahamkan mereka menjual antara 40 hingga 50 unit sebulan. Bagaimanapun, jualan Proton tahun lalu menurun kepada 70,991 unit berbanding 72,291 unit pada 2016. Saya tahu ada banyak kekangan yang dihadapi oleh wakil-wakil jualan ini. Antaranya, dari segi pembayaran gaji minimum dengan rata-rata mereka mempunyai 15 pekerja termasuk ejen. Kalau hanya dapat jual secara purata 20-30 buah kereta sebulan bagaimana mereka nak menampung kos operasi, sewa bangunan, bayaran gaji pekerja dan sebagainya.

Sejak November berapa kerugian yang dicatatkan wakil-wakil jualan ini?

ZAINUDDIN: Berdasarkan aduan yang saya terima ia melibatkan kerugian yang teruk iaitu sekitar 40 hingga 50 peratus setiap bulan berbanding tahun-tahun sebelum ini. Kerugian ini sudah berlarutan dalam jangka masa yang agak lama. Ramai wakil jualan bumiputera telah bertukar tangan dan ada yang telah pun gulung tikar.

Antara syarat yang perlu dipenuhi ialah wakil-wakil jualan perlu membuka pusat servis 3S di atas tanah sendiri atau tanah sewa. Masalahnya bukan mudah nak dapatkan pemilikan tanah dalam tempoh yang singkat. Bukankah begitu Datuk?

ZAINUDDIN: Ya, ini satu perkara yang paling sukar dan tidak logik sebab nak beli tanah dan tukar nama pun memakan masa lebih enam bulan. Tetapi pengurusan baru Proton tetapkan syarat-syarat ketat iaitu wajib naik taraf ke 3S dalam tempoh kurang setahun. Sudah tentu ini sukar direalisasikan oleh wakil jualan bumiputera. Kalau tak ikut syarat ini, mereka akan tukar dengan wakil jualan lain yang kemungkinan besar rata-ratanya adalah wakil jualan bukan bumiputera. Di Lembah Kelang ini terutamanya, mana nak dapat tanah untuk bina bangunan sendiri atas tanah seluas 0.61 hektar (1.5 ekar) seperti ditetapkan pengurusan baru Proton ini. Jelas tidak logik. Wakil jualan bumiputera tidak mampu untuk menyewa atau membeli tanah 0.61 hektar (1.5 ekar) tersebut. Akhirnya di Lembah Kelang, saya percaya akan dimonopoli oleh wakil jualan bukan bumiputera.

Tidak ada langsungkah wakil jualan bumiputera yang bertaraf 3S?

ZAINUDDIN: Jumlahnya sangat sedikit dan hanya boleh dibilang dengan jari. Di Lembah Kelang difahamkan hanya ada dua sahaja. Konsep 3S wakil jualan bumiputera dilihat masih belum mampu untuk menjalankan perniagaan 3S di Lembah Kelang kerana berbagai-bagai faktor. Inilah realitinya.

Ini baru tiga bulan dasar baru diperkenalkan oleh pengurusan baru Proton. Apa jadi Datuk kalau masih berterusan?

ZAINUDDIN: Tidak mustahil dalam lima hingga enam bulan ini, vendor-vendor bumiputera Proton pula yang akan ‘mati’, bisnes tutup tak boleh berniaga. Margin sedia ada pun tidak mampu menampung kos operasi inikan pula saya difahamkan mereka nak kurangkan lagi 30 peratus. Jadi sebelum wakil jualan dan vendor ini lebih ramai yang ‘bungkus,’ maka eloklah kerajaan berbuat sesuatu.

Sejak dasar ini dimulakan November lalu, di Lembah Kelang sahaja, banyak wakil jualan bumiputera sudah bungkus daripada keseluruhan wakil jualan bumiputera yang ada. Diakui ada juga wakil jualan bukan bumiputera yang sudah menutup perniagaan mereka tetapi nisbah wakil jualan bumiputera lebih ramai. Kita ingin menyuarakan kebimbangan bahawa jualan wakil-wakil bukan bumiputera akan menguasai sepenuhnya pasaran Proton pada masa akan datang.

Tetapi Perdana Menteri, Datuk Sri Najib Tun Razak baru-baru ini memberi jaminan akan menjaga masa depan Proton. Pada pandangan Datuk, adakah ini termasuk masa depan vendor dan wakil jualan atau sebaliknya?

ZAINUDDIN: Kami melihat Perdana Menteri amat ikhlas dan bersungguh-sungguh untuk menjaga masa depan Proton. Malangnya keikhlasan dan kesungguhan Perdana Menteri tidak sejajar dengan pengurusan Proton baru yang dikuasai oleh Geely yang kelihatannya tidak ada lagi agenda bumiputera dan tidak lagi menjadi keutamaan mereka. Kita bukan nak salahkan atau bangkang kerajaan mahupun Proton. Tidak sama sekali! Kita memang sangat hargai usaha Perdana Menteri melawat kilang Proton di Tanjung Malim dan bagi jaminan tentang masa depan Proton yang akan terus dijaga walaupun di bawah Geely. Cuma kita harap hasrat beliau dapat dijayakan oleh pengurusan Proton yang baru ini. Itu sahaja kita mahukan.

Antara faktor yang mendorong kepada syarat naik taraf 3S ini juga disebabkan Proton akan memulakan jualan Boyue tahun ini. Adakah Pekema ada sebarang cadangan dalam perkara ini?

ZAINUDDIN: Kita difahamkan pihak Proton dengan bantuan kerajaan akan membawa masuk sejumlah besar secara CBU Boyue dengan insentif istimewa daripada kerajaan bagi menggalakkan jualan Proton di pasaran, malangnya CBU Boyue ini difahamkan akan diberi kepada wakil jualan Proton 3S sahaja. Ini satu lagi diskriminasi secara halus kepada wakil jualan bumiputera 1S yang tidak diberi hak untuk menjual CBU Boyue.

Tetapi difahamkan untuk bantu usahawan bumiputera dalam industri automotif, kerajaan ada sediakan dana. Adakah dana itu digunakan?

ZAINUDDIN: Memang ada dana ini yang dikutip daripada ahli Pekema iaitu RM10,000 setiap AP. Dan kutipan ini telah pun mencecah RM3 bilion sejak 2010. Daripada dana ini, 20 peratus diperuntukkan untuk pembinaan kapasiti di bawah Institut Automotif Malaysia (MAI) manakala 40 peratus untuk Pekema. Lagi 40 peratus pula akan disalurkan untuk membantu membangunkan usahawan bumiputera dalam sektor automotif.

Tetapi, dana dan peruntukan ini tidak diagihkan dan diuar-uarkan jadi tidak ada yang memohon. Maknanya dalam tempoh lapan tahun ini, peruntukan 40 peratus ini tidak pernah diagihkan walaupun kita tahu ada beberapa permohonan dibuat. Jadi, kita minta pada kerajaan supaya dana ini diagihkan untuk bantu wakil-wakil jualan bumiputera ini. Kita harap dengan pinjaman mudah ini usahawan bumiputera boleh bergerak ke hadapan manakala Proton pula melonggarkan syarat mereka.

Bagaimana dengan pembiayaan?

ZAINUDDIN: Dari segi pembiayaan pula, kita nak gunakan dana yang disumbangkan oleh Pekema selama lapan tahun ini. Ikut perkiraan kami, untuk bangunan sahaja ia menelan kos antara RM2 juta hingga RM3 juta. Kos ini tidak termasuk tanah. Jika ikut kos tanah, misalnya di kawasan utama di Lembah Kelang harganya antara RM800 hingga RM1,200 satu kaki persegi dengan mengambil kira lokasi yang strategik dan di hadapan jalan raya. Ia berbeza dengan lokasi lain di Kulim contohnya antara RM200 hingga RM300 satu kaki persegi. Jadi, dengan kos tanah (ambil kira RM800 kaki persegi di Lembah Kelang) dan memenuhi syarat 0.61 hektar yang ditetapkan Proton, ia dianggarkan mencecah RM52 juta. Ini belum lagi mengambil kira modal pusingan sebanyak RM3.5 juta untuk membeli kereta dan kos membina bangunan yang kesemuanya menelan kos sebanyak RM60 juta.

Selain kita menggunakan dana tersebut, kita juga mempertimbangkan platform lain iaitu melantik pengurusan profesional untuk jaga pusat 3S dan menggunakan ahli yang boleh jalankan perniagaan ini secara usaha sama. Tetapi dalam masa sama, 25 syarikat yang merupakan ahli Pekema juga masih bertaraf 1S.

Apa kekangan yang menyebabkan bumiputera tidak boleh naik taraf ke 3S ini? ZAINUDDIN: Prestasi Proton sendiri sebenarnya. Selain sudah lama tidak mengeluarkan model baru (Persona dikeluarkan penghujung 2016), pengguna juga semakin hilang keyakinan dan ini menyebabkan penguasaan pasaran jatuh. Dalam masa sama, prestasi Proton dalam tempoh enam hingga tujuh tahun ini asyik bertukar tangan dari Khazanah Nasional Berhad dan kemudiannya DRB-Hicom Berhad yang menunjukkan satu ‘bentuk penyelesaian yang kukuh’. Ini menyebabkan pengedar tidak tahu hala tuju dan ambil keputusan untuk teruskan perniagaan walaupun menanggung kerugian. Memang ada yang cakap kena berubah, ya, kita boleh berubah, tapi soalnya mana nak dapatkan tanah buat bangunan sendiri dalam tempoh setahun?

Apakah harapan Pekema terhadap Proton?

ZAINUDDIN: Kita semua sayangkan Proton, Proton adalah imej negara dan satu kebanggaan rakyat Malaysia. Kita mengalu-alukan Geely sebagai rakan kongsi strategik Proton. Kita minta pihak kerajaan khususnya MITI yang diterajui oleh Datuk Sri Mustapa Mohamed yang cukup prihatin dengan nasib bumiputera dalam industri automotif dan Kementerian Kewangan (MOF) yang telah memberi lebih RM1 bilion kepada Proton dalam bentuk perjanjian mudah supaya dapat memastikan Proton mengekalkan dasar agenda bumiputera selaras dengan Dasar Pembangunan Nasional yang merupakan sambungan kepada Dasar Ekonomi Baru. Justeru vendor-vendor dan wakil-wakil jualan bumiputera mestilah terus dibantu dan janganlah biarkan mereka ditindas oleh dasar-dasar dan polisi-polisi baru yang akan membunuh mereka secara perlahan-lahan.

Artikel Penuh: http://www.utusan.com.my/rencana/utama/pengedar-bumiputera-proton-tertekan-1.606713#ixzz5757G8xln
© Utusan Melayu (M) Bhd

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Proton telah mengeluarkan kenyataan rasmi menjelaskan keadaan dan perancangan, terutama dalam proses untuk menambah baik dan mempertingkatkan eko-sistem motorkar nasional itu.

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Ini merupakan sebahagian dari pembaharuan dan peningkatan dalam perancangan Proton itu terus bergerak kehadapan dan mengekalkan kelangsungan, bagi menentukan jenama dan syarikat akan terus kekal dan bertambah kukuh.

Selepas pengambil-alihan Proton dari Khazanah Nasional Bhd. bermula 2012, DRB-HICOM memutuskan agar diambil rakan strategik industri automtotif demi kelangsungan syarikat, jenama dan eko-sistem yang telah diujudkan semenjak 33 tahun lampau.

Selepas Zheijang Geely Holdings dari Cina diambil sebagai rakan kongsi strategik pada Jun 2017, Proton mula mengalami perubahan secara total.

Bulan lepas produk pertama pasca penglibatan Geely dalam Proton disahkan akan berada dipasaran bermula suku keempat 2018.

Sewajarnya, peningkatan produk dari segi rekaan, peralatan, teknologi dan prestasi merupakan penyediaan Proton diperingkat huluan eko-sistem. Ini termasuk menentukan vendor membekalkan bahagian yang bermutu bersesuaian dengan produk dan harapan pasaran.

Oleh demikian, sasaran eko-sistem Proton diperingkat hiliran juga memerlukan peningkatan juga. Setakat ini, lebih 90% pengedar Proton terutama dikalangan Bumiputera adalah kategori 1S (Sales).

Difahamkan, hanya 8% sahaja bertaraf 3S/4S. Indeks kepuasan pelangan menunjukkan setakat ini Proton tidak menepati kehendak pasaran.

Sasaran Proton agar 30 hingga 40% pengedar dikalangan pengusaha Bumiputera mempertingkatkan kemampuan mereka ketahap 3S/4S.

Ini bersesuaian dengan pengenalan produk setelah dibangunkan bersama penyertaan Geely sebagai rakan kongsi strategik, bermula suku ke-empat tahun ini.

Ini merupakan tindakan strategik kerana kemampuan pengedar ditahap 3S/4S bermakna memberikan pengusaha berkenaan peluang memanjangkan perniagaan secara berterusan dengan pelangan pasca jualan.

Insentif berupa margin tambahan akan diberikan Proton kepada pengedar yang menaik taraf fasiliti ketahap 3S/4S, sebagai peningkatan pulangan atas pelaburan berkenaan tambahan penaik-tarafan perniagaan mereka.

Ini penting kerana dengan pengenalan model SUV baru ini, Proton berhasrat meningkat keupayaan syarikat dan jenama menepati permintaan pasaran dan menyaingi jenama dari Jepun dan Korea.

Peningkatan keupayaan daya-saing dan perkhidmatan merupakan kejayaan strategik Agenda Bumiputera.

 

De-tongkatnise for a better future

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The digressing debate stirred by Persatuan Pegimport dan Peniagar Kereta Melayu Malaysia (PEKEMA) on Proton’s direction to move forward is a typical melancholic stance on sentiments without substance.

Auto-journo Hezeri Samsuri’s analysis in Careta.my says it all:

PROTON – LET’S FOCUS ON THE REAL THING

OLEH HEZERI SAMSURI|

For the past few days, Malaysians, who are generally very patriotic on the subject of the national carmaker Proton, have been slamming the Malaysian Association of Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders (Pekema) for its recent Pro-Bumiputra statement.

Consumers and business entities including the non-Malaysians need to understand two things here – being patriotic does not really mean you must buy a Proton car and the perception already embedded among many Malaysians that the business objective for Bumiputra has been recognised as part of many Proton’s long outstanding problems.

But then again, if one sits down and ponder, there are also valid issues brought up by Pekema.

For now, let’s put aside Pekema stance because the association is not the interest group involved in the issue since the traders under Pekema only represent AP holders for imported reconditioned vehicles. There is every possibility that the Pekema statement was steered by some dealers under Proton to stir things up.

Let’s look from the business point of view because only then we can view Proton as what it should have been treated long long time ago – a corporation or a genuine automotive manufacturer.

 

 

The background story

Those in the automotive circle have been highlighting since the nineties that Proton’s setup was a flawed sales model from the beginning when it ventured into car business.

For some reason, the government back in the early days of Proton had wanted another business entity to sell the national cars, not Proton.

It is an open secret that the Proton business cycle over the years, had resulted in the distributor earning more than national carmaker and Proton was not able to generate sufficient funds to invest in R&D, unless the shareholders’ focus for Proton is just to redesign Mitsubishi bumpers and facelift, among others.

DRB-HIcom Berhad entered into the picture with its management restructuring exercise for Proton to change the business mindset and approach. Although it was not perfect, it was apparent that the national carmaker was managed better than its previous regime.

Unfortunately, the market further dwindled for Proton when the government decided that after more than 20 years, Proton and other national maker should not be receiving protection any longer as they must behave as a business setup and must stand on their own to compete and capture the market.

As part of the National Automotive Policies in the last ten years or so, more tax breaks and incentives were offered to non-national car makers, provided that it invests in the long run in Malaysia and provide jobs for the locals.

 

 

When Tan Chong Motors reacted to the government’s strategy, they managed to sell their popular Almera below RM70,000. It responded to the demand of the market and provided the affordability path for many Malaysians to own non-national car models again.

We could see non-national brands enjoyed brisk sales despite of the fact that Malaysia imposed strict homologations and safety standards higher than the neighbouring countries, thanks to the most attractive car financing scheme in the region (perhaps in the world).

This gradual market liberalisation is in tandem with the government’s long term plan for automotive growth because if it is not implemented, Malaysia will be left behind.

Even with more competitive eco-system, Proton’s sales plummeted, even lower than a few non-national brands. From a company that produced 200,000 cars annually at the turn of millennium, it could only sell around 70,000 units from two manufacturing plants of huge workforce and Proton’s conventional business model was no longer viable.

Instead, Proton had to plot for survival mode instead and the focus for expansion plan by selling new car models beyond the country’s borders was out of the window.

 

 

Obviously, Proton car dealers were under tremendous pressure with the poor sales performance. Some had to close down while many persevered by using all means to stay afloat.

With a new partner, the comeback card is there for the taking but we must remember these fervent points:

  1. Geely spent substantial sums to be Proton’s partner. Therefore, the carmaker from China certainly want its investment back, with interest (profit).
  2. Geely is an international company. If you are familiar with China MNCs philosophy, you will realise that they do not look at skin colour to succeed. If it applies that, you will see somebody else leading Volvo out of their misery but alas, the Mat Salehs are still there. If you can perform well, you will earn Geely’s trust.
  3. With a new partner in place, Proton is not getting the benefits as national car outfit. Proton will be treated equally and given the same incentives that other car companies are also getting. In other word, if there are local investment, the incentives will be higher. Right now, the Japanese carmakers such as Honda, Toyota, Nissan and Mazda are enjoying high incentives simply because they put in a lot of investment in the country.
  4. Proton dealers should not only consist of Bumiputra but from other races too. The prospective buyers are also from various races and not just Bumiputra. Any expansion plan from the new Proton setup should be non-discriminatory because if the policy of business as usual persist just like before, the chances are that the company’s outlook will go back to square one. 

With that in mind, let us look into the issues that the dealers have been highlighting repeatedly.

 

 

Dealers expansion and investment

Proton wants dealers to expand their operation by setting up 3S or 4S centre if they are interested to sell Proton’s new Geely-based products.

According to the Bumiputra car traders’ spokesperson, Pekema that is, it is an unfair demand because nobody can invest in such short span of time. What Proton actually pointed out was that the expansion plan for dealers is from this year to 2020.

If we look at Proton’s remark, it is understandable unless a dealer only started its business operation three years ago. Those who have become dealers for more than 10 years are aware that car companies in the country have already scrapped the 1S concept ages ago.

All car brands are already applying the 3S or 4S setup for dealers because the bulk of profits normally generated from aftersales. It is also interesting to note that Perodua has also included plans to get the dealers to expand but with the current scenario, we are pretty sure Perodua will refrain from commenting on this.

But then again, let’s be fair. For ages, Proton was known among the automotive journalists as ‘Kementerian Pembuat Kenderaan’ (Ministry of Vehicle Manufacturer) because the dealers and vendors were not selected based on merits but for some other ‘insulated factors’.

Back then, since Proton was known as the pioneer national carmaker, then Proton should be accessible to the ‘Rakyat’ and hence why the brand must be visible in the nooks and crannies of Malaysia’s small towns and villages via the small car dealers of Proton.

In all fairness, it is not feasible currently for many small dealers to expand because their limited financial capabilities and market outreach are marginal. Perhaps, Proton and the government can assist in some way by looking into their current dilemma.

We were told that for small dealers who cannot afford to invest, they can still source the new products from the nearest major Proton outlets. This means the major dealers will supply the smaller dealers with Proton’s new product.

This is fair because in today’s norm, selling a car must include in offering the aftersales and if you do not want to invest in the aftersales, you should be getting a lower profit margin.

What Proton is doing therefore is in line with what the major automotive companies are doing, globally.

 

 

Proton has reduced the profit margin?

The report further explains that Proton is decreasing the margin and some dealers find it difficult to survive.

According to sources, Proton will provide a four per cent margin for dealers who sell more than 40 units of vehicles monthly. The report states that some small dealers who normally sell between 20 to 30 units a month will not qualify for the four per cent margin.

However, it is understood that Proton has decided to revise the margin scheme and lower the threshold in order to help those dealers. Bear in mind, this assistance will certainly eat into Proton’s earning. Proton cars are getting better and their equipment level is even higher. Obviously it is costing Proton more to make the cars.

The report perhaps forgot to mention that Proton is also offering Payment After Registration (PAR) exercise for the Bumiputra dealers. It is worth to mention that this is not the industry’s standard practice and it is definitely designed to help dealers to gain a stronger foothold.

Again, this is not a permanent solution and like all incentive, it has a time limit. If one believes this assistance should be permanent, then the car dealer should not be in any business in the first place.

Proton has more than 9,000 workers under its payroll. Should we sacrifice them in order to get a few people among the dealers to survive the ordeals?

 

 

Parts vendors are being bullied?

It was reported that Proton is asking the vendors to slash their prices to 30 per cent.

Some vendors dutifully agreed, convinced that the forecast sales will be able to make up the losses while some vendors who have been struggling for quite some time claimed that the request from Proton are absurd and unreasonable.

Whether we like it or not, this is a real issue. In the global manufacturing arena, volume is one of the important factors in determining the price of parts.

Vendors have the right to feel cagey about Proton latest move. They have experienced it before and have seen the consequences.

But then again, vendors and the government should not forget that the very reason why we have huge global automotive parts makers in Malaysia is because of Proton.

Therefore, if the vendors claimed that this new 30 per cent price reduction is difficult to achieve, government should view each of the cases individually and help could be extended to those who are really serious to be involved in this industry, regardless of their race.

Some Malaysians voiced out their concern that this might be a trick for Geely to bring in their own parts from China or for their partners to set up new companies in Malaysia.

However, Malaysians should learn about the function and role of Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) and Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI) as the agencies dictating the industry.

Please bear in mind that it is not easy for any foreign party to come in and set up a new parts manufacturing factory in Malaysia. We are pretty sure if there are already a few of the same companies in the country, MITI and MAI will not allow another foreign party to come in.

Competition is healthy but the government will not allow existing companies to suffer and die. MAI for example has a database of all the parts makers and companies in the country.

They are like the Yellow Pages for the automotive industry and you will be surprised to know that Malaysia has a lot of modern engineering companies and manufacturing facilities exporting parts for global car brands.

 

 

The conclusion

If the country wants Proton to be successful, we should view Proton as a global company. Assistance is there for those who deserve it after making the genuine effort.

Crying out loud and bringing down the image of millions of hard working Bumiputras are something that the new age of Bumiputras loathe.

“We are and have been competitive. We work hard to be where we are. If these Bumiputra heroes want to help, then stop making us look like whiners,” said one Bumiputra entrepreneur when asked about the Proton-Bumiputra issue.

Perhaps some of the ancient Bumiputra business owners should come out of their cocoon and start smelling the new world air.

We are not living in the 70’s anymore. It is already 2018.

*This is the opinion of the writer and does not reflect the  publication’s stand on any of the issues.

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Majority if not half of Proton dealers amongst Bumiputera entrepreneurs should have graduated from their comfort zone and be servicing their customers at the 3S/4S category.

It makes perfect business sense.

One, the ability to retain customers for ongoing post sales business is extending the revenue curve. on top of the growing new customers.

Two, the Malaysian car market is growing and on going sector. Failure to capitalise on this growth by retaining existing customer and adding new customers is just commercially pathetic.

Three, the smart and strategic partnership with Zheijang Geely Holdings of China translates that Proton is upping the game with better products in design, technology, equipment and equivocally, a stronger Brand.

The fact that the experience from Geely’s involvement with Volvo and the strategic outcome of better products and growth on all axis for the Volvo brand is the multiplication factor which Proton requirement to remain in the automotive sector.

Four, the Bumiputera dealers ought to aspire to be at par with the dealers of the Japanese brands.

Proton’s press release as a response to PEKEMA’s reaction:

Fifth, Proton vendors ought to graduate from their comfort zone. The have been making a lot of hay during the considerable years of sunshine. It maybe a blanket request but the future rest on the whole eco-system to be rationalised, to meet tough reality of the market.

In fact, it was in the times when Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad’s administration the protectionism policy imposed for the automotive sector, which provided a lot of room for the firms serving the Proton eco-system to make money.

Proton sales pre-DRB HICOM take over

After four million cars since day one, it is time to move on and forward. If those who wanted to remain in the comfort zone of the past and not commercially viable ought be punished by market forces.

The tongkat ought to be relieved from at least half of the Proton dealers. Equally, the sluggish performing vendors. This coming July marks Proton already in the Malaysian car market for thirty three years.

Unreservedly, they have an obligation to dignify themselves as Bumiputera entrepreneurs, after so long.

If good and progressive business sense is not the motivation than perhaps they should not had been given the opportunity in the first place. The future is in the market.

The quest for a thousand chartered accountants

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Permodalan Nasional Bhd’s (PNB) effort to produce 1,000 Chartered Accountants amongst the Malays is right on course and even their sponsored students are achieving world class position.

The Star story:

Wan Nur Mafudah, No 1 world prize winner in ACCA financial reporting


  • NATION
  • Sunday, 18 Feb 2018


  • BESUT: Although advised to forgo her lifelong interest in accountancy, 21-year-old Wan Nur Mafudah Wan Yusof (pic) persevered and proved her mettle.

    Recently, Wan Mafudah, a graduate of the Intec Education College, Kuala Lumpur, enjoyed the fruits of her labour when she was announced as the world prize winner for the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Financial Reporting paper.

    The success is a historical achievement for the native of Kampung Tok Raja, Jertih, as she is the first Malay to attain number one world-ranking with her score of 95 per cent in the paper.

    Previously, the highest achievements reached by several Malays from 2015 until last year, were as second, third and sixth ranking ACCA World Prizewinners.

    After getting a top score of 8A1s and 1B for SPM, Wan Mafudah, who was also a former MRSM Besut student, pursued her studies in accountancy for one and half years at the Poly-Tech Mara College in Kuala Lumpur before receiving a scholarship from Permodalan Nasional Berhad and continuing her education at Intec Education College.

    Sharing the secret to her success, Wan Mafudah said she liked to practice her knowledge by sharing the knowledge acquired with others as it also helped to increase her understanding.

    “I suggest that emphasis be placed on accountancy, commerce, economics and English from the early secondary school level as these are the foundation subjects in the mastery of accountancy.

    “Early exposure also needs to be given in the basics of Information Technology and mathematics as well as mastery in at least three other languages,” she added. – Bernama

    Read more at https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2018/02/18/wan-nur-mafudah-no1world-prize-winner-in-acca-financial-reporting/#TPGHsjDhpu7l85bl.99

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This is very encouraging as the PNB program, is designed to narrow the gap of professionally trained accountants amongst the Malays.

It was projected earlier when Vision 2020 was put in place over 25 years ago and Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak’s agenda of the ‘High Income Nation’ as part of the Economic Transformation, 60,000 accountants would be required by 2020.

At the moment the membership of Malaysia Institute of Accountants (MIA) stands at 35,000. Out that, 10,000 are amongst the Malays and Bumiputera.

Only 18% of the 10,000 are professionally trained accountants.

Hence, PNB’s quest to add another 1,000 is a very strategic initiative. It is more than just an effort to furnish the professional talent pool amongst the firms under PNB’s  substantial portfolio stable.

Considering that there are over 1.100 firms listed in Bursa Malaysia, the targeted 3,000 professional accountants amongst the Malays is still far from adequate.

The success of PNB’s initiative:

ACCA/CAT PRIZE WINNERS DECEMBER 2017

A: In summary for Malaysia, 11 out of 25 prize winners are bumiputera:-

– ACCA : 13 winners (4 out of 13 are Bumiputera)

– CAT : 12 winners (7 out of 12 are Bumiputera)

For 3 top affliates, all non-bumiputera (PNB target is to be able to produce gold/silver or bronze medal winners in future)

B: PNB Chartered Accountant programme prize winner for Dec 2017 sitting

PCA programme in collaboration with Yayasan Peneraju/IPAC has produced 1 ACCA prize winner which is also the first ever scholar who have been ranked 1st in the world (previously highest is 3rd in the World)

Wan Nor Mahfuda binti Wan Yusof Malaysia#1( World #1) for F7 Paper : Financial Reporting

Raised in Jerteh Terengganu, she previously studied @ MRSM Besut. Mahfudah joined PCA programme in Jan 2017 through the Post CAT/Diploma route. Her father is a surveyor and mother is a housewife. She scored 95% for F7 paper and was ranked #1 in Malaysia and #1 in the world by ACCA for Dec 2017 exam.

C: Yayasan Peneraju scholars – 7 prize winners (3 ACCA and 4 CAT). List as prize

PNB team, MyPAC, IPAC Education and Sunway TES who have been providing undivided support & commitment to thrive in increasing number of professional bumiputera for the nation

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Perhaps, more initiatives similar as would be put in place. It is a worthy economic transformation program with a twin-pronged objective; to furnish the requirement for the economic growth and narrow the gap between the ethnic groups.

*Updated 2130hrs

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