KUALA LUMPUR: It's fine if you don't like the idea of donating to the Malaysian government, but there is no need to criticise those who wish to contribute.
This was the gist of an advise offered by Bangi parliamentarian Ong Kian Ming on Twitter tonight.
Ever since the press reported on a crowdfunding effort to help pay Malaysia's debts, Netizens have been sharing their thoughts on the matter.
Today, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, in acknowledging the patriotic attitude of Malaysians who were willing to make donations to the government, announced the setting up of a special fund called Tabung Harapan Malaysia.
The fund, said Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, was a means to help channel aid from the public who were keen on helping the government strengthen its financial position.
The announcement garnered mixed reactions from Malaysians on social media.
In addressing this, Ong shared his opinion that many of those criticising the fund were missing the point.
He said there were a few purposes to the fund, and one of it was to provide an avenue for those who wanted to contribute to the building of a new Malaysia.
"We should let them express their enthusiasm in a tangible manner," Ong wrote on his Twitter account @imokman.
Another purpose he said was that it would be better if the government provided an official channel for contributions.
"People were already crowdfunding for this. It's much better if the government provides an official channel for these contributions," he said, pointing out that without a legitimate fund, there might be instances of fundraising frauds.
"If you don't like the idea, it's fine. Don't contribute to the Tabung. I don't think anyone will hold it against you. But you also don't need to criticise others who want to contribute to this fund," he said.
Those who plan to donate can channel their donations via Maybank account 566010626452. Donations can only be made in Ringgit.