BUTTERWORTH: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed concern that government spending will continue to rise, yet subsidies may not reach the intended groups if the issue of subsidy leaks is not promptly addressed.
He said that studies from various conferences and international economists acknowledged that Malaysia had one of the lowest tax rates while providing some of the highest subsidies in Asia.
"While it is good news that our subsidies are high, without reliable data and numbers, we find that many subsidy leaks and wastage occur, which must be addressed.
"If not addressed, we will keep increasing spending, but it (the subsidies) may not reach the intended groups.
"This is a critical and strategic role that must be played by the DOSM," he said in his speech at the 75th anniversary celebration of DOSM at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena here today.
Present were Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli and chief statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin.
According to Anwar, the amount allocated for agricultural assistance, subsidies for the people, and funds for the poor in the country is substantial.
"I am certainly waiting for the changes to occur, including new measures to be introduced at the state and district levels. This is to obtain figures, as pursued by the Central Database Hub (Padu), which will help us eliminate leaks and overlaps in distributing resources to our people," he added.
Anwar said that all planning, growth projections, investments, as well as studies on poverty and assistance to the people require accurate data and numbers.
"This means that the pulse of the people and the country depends on our efficiency and integrity in producing reliable data and figures.
"One thing that cannot be disputed in this country, despite many questioning institutions and agencies, is that DOSM has established a performance and value that is respected by all citizens.
"This is very helpful because when the figures are trusted, it can aid the country in driving growth and achieving a more equitable distribution," he said.
Meanwhile, Anwar expressed his anticipation for the conclusion of the 2024 Agricultural Census to be released by DOSM.
"The conclusions of the 2024 Agricultural Census will help us formulate agricultural policies that ensure food security.
"It will also help us ascertain the actual number of farmers and fishermen to address their needs," he said.