Government's Cost Cutting Measures

Well, the Government is finally trying to lead by example by cutting cost to their allowances and paid holidays. However, a 10% cut is not nearly enough because if we think about it, when does a Minister nor its Deputy ever entertain anyone? I think it is the other way around. I mean when we invite Minister or its Deputy to any functions it is all paid for. Other than that I don't see why Ministers and Deputy Ministers should have entertainment allowances. That is even more so when it comes to our PM and DPM because being the bosses of this country, they are even more unlikely to entertain anyone. Anyway, 10% cut is like nothing if you ask me or anyone else on the streets for that matter. By right it should be totally cut off since they don't need it. Then we can see how much savings there would be.

As for paid holidays, I think they should only limit them to local holidays. In this way we can see that the Government is setting a good example that we should support our own local tourism industry. Instead of flying off somewhere else and enjoy their holiday with the Rakyat's money, these Ministers should enjoy our money here in Malaysia and give Malaysians the chance to earn it back. As our PM was announcing these cost cutting measures, I can't help but noticed that our DPM is actually spending four days in the UK. I only hoped that he is actually doing some work there which will benefit this country because I am sure the amount spent for this trip will no doubt be very big. Imagine the First Class air ticket, the 5 start suites, the food and allowance entitlement, the transport and security costs. All these will add up to a huge bill since the UK Sterling Pound is such a strong currency.

Finally, perhaps the PM should show the way by paying salary based on performance basis. Since the last election result is so poor, perhaps salaries of Cabinet Ministers and their Deputies should be reviewed. Afterall, these salaries are paid by the Rakyat and therefore, if the Rakyat felt that any Cabinet Member is not up scratch then the relevant "Employee of the Rakyat" should not be paid that much.

Anyway, I think everyone now feels the pinch and hence so many people are speaking up about their unhappiness. Whoever becomes the Government of the day should take the Rakyat's voice seriously and take every criticism with a pinch of salt. Otherwise, we cannot be called a truly democratic society in a developed country.