ALOR STAR: Malaysia's strong financial position enables the government to provide immediate assistance, especially in times of disaster that impact citizens' livelihoods.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that the government's successful management of finances contributed to political stability, which, in turn, attracted foreign investment.
He assured that this continuity ensured prosperity was fairly and promptly distributed to the people.
"A just government will always prioritise the welfare of those facing hardships. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, even while abroad, continues to encourage foreign investors to consider Malaysia, given the country's stable political climate.
"Despite political differences, these are managed effectively," he said in his speech at the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) headquarters, where he presented flood relief aid to affected padi farmers here today.
Saifuddin said that Malaysia's stable financial standing was the result of the Prime Minister's focus on controlling expenditures, avoiding waste, and steering clear of corruption and misconduct.
"As long as the government maintains its financial health, aid can be provided swiftly in times of need. When floods hit several states, we must act quickly. This is what we are doing now after the Prime Minister announced RM13 million in flood relief for Kedah.
"As Finance Minister, he knows there are still funds available to allocate in times of disaster. We can still distribute funds for aid, prioritising spending carefully," he said.
On Sept 21, Anwar announced an allocation of RM13 million to repair flood-damaged infrastructure in Kedah. https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/1108615/pm-announces-rm13m-al...
This allocation includes support for flood victims who have been relocated to relief centres, alongside contributions from federal and state agencies.
Meanwhile, Mada chairman Datuk Dr Ismail Salleh confirmed that 4,233 padi farmers in Kedah had received RM4.23 million in aid, with each farmer receiving RM1,000 to help mitigate their losses and prepare for the upcoming planting season.
"The Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) approved RM1,000 per farmer, benefitting 4,233 farmers in total. Of the 27 Farmers' Associations (PPK) in the region, 21 were impacted, with damages exceeding RM29.43 million," he said.