ALOR STAR: The country's strong financial standing allows the government to provide immediate aid, especially in cases of disasters that affect citizens' incomes.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that when the government successfully manages financial matters, it contributes to political stability, attracting interest from foreign investors.
Saifuddin assured that this continuity ensures prosperity is distributed fairly and promptly to citizens.
"Of course, a just government will prioritise the welfare of people facing hardships over other concerns. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, even while abroad, consistently encourages foreign investors to consider Malaysia. Given the country's stable political climate, despite differences in political opinion, which are managed effectively," he said during his speech before presenting flood relief aid to affected padi farmers at the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) headquarters here today.
Saifuddin said the nation's stable financial position is achieved through the Prime Minister's emphasis on controlling expenses, avoiding wastefulness, and steering clear of corruption and misconduct.
"Aid can be provided as long as the government's financial health remains stable. When floods hit several states, that is when we need to deliver aid swiftly. This is what we are doing 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 a total allocation of RM13 million to repair infrastructure damaged by floods in Kedah.
This amount includes financial support provided by federal and state agencies for all flood victims who have moved to flood relief centres.
Meanwhile, Mada chairman Datuk Dr Ismail Salleh said 4,233 padi farmers in Kedah received RM4.23 million in aid from the Prime Minister, with each farmer receiving RM1,000 to help offset their losses and prepare for the upcoming planting season.
"The Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) agreed to provide RM1,000 per farmer, benefitting 4,233 farmers overall. Of the 27 Farmers' Associations area (PPK), 21 were impacted, with total damages exceeding RM29.43 million," he said.