KUDAT: The Barisan Nasional (BN) government will fulfill its pledges to the people made in the BN manifesto during the 13th general election, said Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri.
He said although the country was facing challenges from the erratic world economy which could affect the Malaysian economy, the government will still make good of its manifesto to the people.
“The biggest challenge is reducing the nation’s economic deficit to two or three per cent, compared to five to six per cent now.
“A high deficit shows an unhealthy economy which will affect the country’s ranking and restrict its capabilities should an economic crisis occur,” he said.
Abdul Rahim, who is also Kudat MP, said this in his speech at a function with leaders and the people at the Kampung Pitas futsal court here which was attended by 350 people. He said among the efforts to increase government revenue is to increase collections and reduce subsidies.
“All these measures will give a short-term shock to the people. It’s better for us to be cautious and sacrifice a little now than to face problems in the future like what is happening to countries in the West,” he said.
Meanwhile, Abdul Rahim reminded the public not to be influenced by the opposition regarding economic control and savings because the government is, in any situation, truly sensitive to the welfare and woes of Malaysians.
“The low and middle income group will not be affected because the government has provided a safety net for the people through various initiatives. The 1Malaysia People’s Aid (BR1M) will aslo be increased this year to RM650 with almost seven million recipients,” he added. — Bernama