Government will spend wisely, avoid waste and excess - PM Anwar Ibrahim

SHAH ALAM - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim ensured the public that the government under his administration would be more prudent to avoid excess.

The Tambun MP said his administration would not repeat the practice of excess by the previous government.

In this regard, he reminded all future Cabinet members to not use government funds for unnecessary expenses including for matters related to the renovation of their respective offices.

"So, this is a message to all other department leaders to remember that we should start a new culture.

"Don't use government money for our own conveniences. Think of how you can save RM100, RM1,000 or RM10,000 that can be used for people in need. I started with not taking a salary (as Prime Minister).

"But more importantly don't waste it. Because I understand that every minister back then when they move or change departments, they spend half a million ringgit, RM300,000 ringgit just to repair or replace all the beautiful chairs and tables," he said.

Anwar was talking to reporters after performing special prayers at the Ashabus Solihin Mosque, Kajang, on Saturday night.

Anwar added that he did not feel the need to replace of fix anything in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).

"I will use the existing car (in the office) there is no need for any new purchases for PMO, they also informed me that the carpet had a bit of a tear, and I said there is no need for a new one, just fix it a little bit," he said.

Meanwhile, Anwar, who is also the Chairman of Pakatan Harapan, said he had instructed for the 2022 National Action Council on the Cost of Living to be held today to discuss the issue of the rising cost of living that is currently affecting the people.

"It's important that I hear what can be done to solve this problem. Some can be immediate solutions and some can be long-term," he said.