BY: NORHAYATI UMOR
SHAH ALAM, AUG 2: The 2017 Selangor Budget that will be tabled in November will focus on easing the rakyat’s burden and improving the country’s economic welfare and development.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali said the budget will be structured to face the country’s global challenges and current economic environment arising from the 1 Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal and the Goods & Services Tax (GST) implementation.
He added that collective effort is needed from all parties to prepare a budget that will truly benefit the rakyat.
“The 1MDB scandal has not only tarnished the country’s dignity and sovereignty but the citizens are also suffering from the high cost of living due to GST implementation.
“Today, Selangor continues to be a preferred investment destination among foreign and domestic investors. It is therefore a joint responsibility among all our assemblymen to propose principles that are pro-businesses and investor-friendly.
“We also need to create a conducive environment for investment and maintain the quality of our administration that has always been based on moderation and justice,” he said in his winding-up speech at the Selangor State Assembly session.
Mohamed Azmin wanted the State’s Treasury and the State’s Economic Planning Unit to carefully review all details submitted by all assemblymen and provide feedback before enacting the 2017 Budget.
“When the State Government is supported by its assemblymen and executive bodies, including civil servants, to preserve the principles of moderation and justice in implementation of its policies, Selangor will surely continue to be a progressive and prosperous state,” he said.
Meanwhile, he also delivered a message on harmony and called on all parties to preserve the unity in existence now.
He was certain that this principle will create the synergy that will support the state in achieving its objectives.
“We cannot afford to be defeated in Selangor. Selangor cannot fall but we need to rise up to ensure that this state continues to be a major contributor to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“I always promote unity and harmony as these are virtues that bring blessings. I call on all assemblyman and civil servants to always serve the people above personal or group interests.
“It is our responsibility as assemblymen to ensure that the trust given by the rakyat is used for development projects and social justice for each and every one to enjoy the state’s wealth,” he said.
