Budget 2013

 

Is it a truly a budget for the Rakyat?

The much awaited budget for 2013 was finally presented by the PM in parliament yesterday. As usual it received mixed reactions by various groups and the opposition bluntly brushing it aside as an election budget with nothing new for the well-being of the people and the nation.

In short this budget is all about a generous government of 55 years ditching out billions in cash aid to the people, who are struggling to make ends meet. It is significant that it comes at a time when the people will be going to the most crucial election to select the government for the next 5 years. It is not surprising that the BN government taking full advantage of the annual budget for its election preparations.

Going out cash aid to the people is not wrong but is always welcome. However such generous acts alone    is just a stop gap measure to overcome the people’s financial woes. A one-time or two-time handout of RM500 or RM1000 is not going to have any significant and lasting effects on the people's well-being. What the vast majority of Malaysians need is not such one-off payments but more thought of and well planned long-term policies and plans in six key areas. 

1. Education - free quality education for all citizens
2. Healthcare - affordable and easy accessible quality medical care to all, rich and poor alike

3. Housing - cheaper and comfortable

5. Public transport - safer, cheaper, efficient, reliable and comfortable
6. Security for citizens and their families with an accepted low crime rate

Unfortunately the Budget 2013 does not seem to address these basic issues that are vital for the well-being of the people and the health of the nation in general.

The present BN government has been there for 55years and by now it should have reached a state where it need not resort to such desperate pre-election cash handouts for the continued support of the people. To my mind such measures amount to admitting its failure of its responsibilities to the people for over half a century. Isn’t it an insult to depend on cash handouts for support after 55years in power?

The big question is whether the people are swayed to vote for BN after this feel-good Santa Claus budget. I feel the BN is in for a real surprise for underestimating the intelligence, maturity and wisdom of the people despite being their rulers for over half a century.