KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has chastised parliamentarians who seek to champion the T15 wealthy group over the RON95 petrol subsidy targeting during a parliamentary debate.
The Prime Minister pointed out that 85% of the population, primarily lower-income earners, would not be affected by the targeted subsidy.
Anwar remarked that he could accept criticism if the MPs suggested reviewing the T15 classification, but questioned the need for them to go so far as to cause an uproar in Parliament.
“In Parliament, everyone wants to be a champion defending the T15,” he said.
“If they suggest that it needs a review because some people in that group may not be very wealthy, I can accept that. But why act as a champion?
“What kind of politics is this? This is the country where politicians make a fuss to defend the T15 rich. Do they even ask the villagers?” he asked during a working visit and gathering with the Padang Rengas community in Perak today.
In tabling Budget 2025, Prime Minister Anwar announced that the government plans to implement targeted RON95 subsidies by mid-next year.
He stated that 85% of the population, however, would remain unaffected by the move, allowing the government to save RM8 billion.
The T15 household category refers to the top 15% of households by income.
Anwar urged the public to understand the targeted RON95 subsidy plan by evaluating the politicians’ statements for themselves.
“They might have a beard, wear a skullcap, or a suit, but make a fair assessment. Evaluate and discuss whether they truly understand economics.
“Whether they sincerely intend to develop the country or are simply driven by jealousy,” he said.
Anwar also touched on certain parties’ criticism of his decision not to draw a salary as Prime Minister, saying this had become a contentious issue.
Anwar expressed confusion over the objections, noting that if he chose to take a salary in future, that would likely become an issue as well.
“People are upset that I don’t take a salary as PM. Are they jealous? What’s their problem?
“If I were to take a salary, it would be hundreds of thousands a year. It’s been two years, so it would amount to a million… it’s fine, I’m not poor. I have my MP’s allowance, and I have a government car,” he said.
Recently, during the Budget 2025 debate in the Dewan Rakyat, PAS Deputy President Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man raised the question of how Anwar derives income if he does not take a salary for his position.
In a light-hearted tone, Tuan Ibrahim remarked that even a Prophet was given “provision” by Allah SWT for sustenance. – October 27, 2024