KUCHING: Development funds for Members of Parliament (MPs) to implement projects in their constituencies will be updated according to the country’s financial ability.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the allocation could be increased when the country’s financial situation permits it.
“Currently, I understand that according to the country’s financial ability, it has been decided that only RM1 million be allocated to the MPs.
“But at the same time, MPs still have other allocations for big projects where they can apply for allocations through government agencies and so on,” he said when contacted.
Fadillah was responding to the reduction of government development allocations for MPs by 65 per cent this year, as a measure to better control the country’s finances.
“Usually the allocation depends on the country’s finances. Currently, what is decided is not only based on the country’s finances but also the current financial flow, and indeed, it will be updated in several periods,” he said.
The Petra Jaya MP added the allocation is meant for small development projects that require immediate solutions.
“The allocation is usually given for minor rural projects and enables elected representatives to help the people in their respective areas,” he said.
When asked if the reduction of funds would cause development projects to be delayed, Fadillah said the allocation only involves small projects.
“In fact, when there is a new allocation, MPs will submit requests for funds for projects that must be implemented for the set year and not to be carried over to the next year.
“So when the allocation is given, they will identify within the RM1 million how much can be used for projects and developments.
“It will then be submitted to the Implementation Coordination Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department for approval,” he said.
