Perak ready to restructure state expenditure
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- The Perak state government is considering restructuring its budget to navigate economic challenges stemming from the West Asia conflict.
- Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad indicated that a supplementary budget might be introduced if necessary, drawing on experience from managing finances during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The state aims to mitigate the impact on investments and ensure economic resilience, with a focus on food security and attracting international investment.
Perak is proactively assessing its financial strategies to weather the economic storm brewing from the conflict in West Asia. As reported by Utusan Malaysia, the state government, led by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, is exploring options for restructuring its expenditure. This move is informed by the state's past experience in financial realignment during the more severe COVID-19 pandemic, a period when supplementary budgets were avoided in favor of reallocating existing funds. Saarani emphasized that the current review aims to address multiple issues and find solutions that benefit the populace. While the immediate focus is on budget adjustments, the possibility of a supplementary budget remains open should the economic situation become critical. The state is also looking at targeted measures, such as diesel subsidies for transport lorries, to help maintain affordable goods prices. Despite global economic uncertainties, Perak remains committed to its 'Perak Sejahtera 2030' plan, which aims to bolster the state's resilience. This includes a strategic push towards becoming a food producer, reducing reliance on imports and capitalizing on the global supply chain shifts that present opportunities for stable investment destinations like Malaysia. The Menteri Besar urged unity among all parties to confront the impending economic crisis, underscoring the collective responsibility in navigating these challenging times.
I have raised the same matter in the Exco meeting last week. At this stage, we are examining all needs so that any decision later can solve many problems.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.