ON HUMAN RIGHTS, JUSTICE AND PEACE ISSUES, LABOUR RIGHTS, MIGRANT RIGHTS, FOR THE ABOLITION OF THE DEATH PENALTY, TOWARDS AN END OF TORTURE, POLICE ABUSES, DISCRIMINATION...
In Malaysia, if an employer employs LOCAL worker, he has to pay that worker his WAGES plus and additional 11-13% to EPF/KWSP.
For foreign workers/migrant workers, he did not have to make any EPF/KWSP Contributions.
HENCE, cheaper monthly payment obligations for MIGRANT WORKERS - hence, it PREJUDICES LOCAL Malaysian workers.
Malaysian workers should be PRIORITIZED - so, the introduction of EPF for migrant workers is good.
Now, with regards to monthly wages and EPF contribution - it is EQUAL. Hopefully, this will make some employers to now employ MORE Local Workers.
From a principle of EQUALITY - it ends DISCRIMINATION amongst workers. For the mandatory employer contribution to workers is now the same.
SECOND - at least migrant workers will have SOME money to take back home when they leave Malaysia > that monies in the EPF accounts. This would overcome the problem of employer cheating workers of wages, and delaying in settling payments due to workers. BUT Now, with this lump sum money in the EPF account - they can go back. Previously, many remain 'illegally' as they do not have enough money to return because employer cheated them, etc..
Money owing to migrant workers, who are asked to leave the country at the end of the employment, is LOST because to claim for that monies PHYSICAL PRESENCE at the Labour Department was needed. Failure to attend results in your claim against employers being dismissed...a grave injustice to workers > yet to be resolved by the Malaysian Government. This is 'HUMAN TRAFFICKING" - and Malaysia, sadly by law and practice, facilitates Human Trafficking, being exploitation of workers. Employers('human traffickers') who do not pay workers for the work already done tend to get away with it.... Malaysia must resolve this issue.
People have asked that migrant workers be not sent back to their country of origin, until it is CONFIRMED that employers have already settled all payments due, and there is NO outstanding claim of monies from employers. A suggestion that a Ministry of Human Resource Certificate be a requirement - where the Ministry will investigate and ensure that there are NO MORE outstanding payment to these workers before they are asked to leave Malaysia..
It is disappointing the EMPLOYERS are protesting ...WHY? Equality demands that all workers are treated equally irrespective of their nationality.
MORE contribution to EPF also may benefit all EPF account holders - as more monies available means more investments..and thus the chance for HIGHER EPF Dividends annually...
FMM shocked by govt’s move to deduct EPF for migrant workers
The
Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers says industry players feel
sidelined as they were not consulted on mandatory EPF contributions for
foreign workers.
The
Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers said foreign workers may not be
keen about contributing to EPF since it would reduce their take-home
pay. (Bernama pic)PETALING JAYA:
The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has expressed disappointment over the government’s unexpected announcement that all foreign workers would be required to contribute to EPF from 2025.
FMM president Soh Thian Lai said it was caught off guard by the announcement when the 2025 budget was tabled last Friday, saying the government did not engage stakeholders prior to this.
Soh also lamented the lack of clarity on the plan, saying this has caused great concern within the business community.
“Industry players feel disappointed and sidelined, as they were not given the opportunity to provide input or voice their concerns on the potential impact of such a policy on business operations, costs and workforce management.
“Its implementation should be delayed, preferably for another two years, to allow sufficient time for comprehensive stakeholder consultations and for businesses to adjust to the impending financial commitments.
There has been no information on key aspects like the specific timeframe for implementation, who exactly would be covered under this rule, the contribution rates for both employers and foreign employees or how the phased rollout will be managed, he said in a statement.
Soh said the mandatory contributions for foreign workers would affect the operating costs and cash flow of employers, adding that this was an additional burden on top of the upcoming new RM1,700 minimum wage and multi-tier levy system.
He believed the existing social safety net system for migrant workers offered sufficient protection, while EPF’s purpose of retirement savings did not align with the short-term nature of the employment of migrant workers.
He also said employers could not afford to make EPF contributions for migrant workers at the same 12%-13% rate that they do for Malaysian employees.
With 2.5 million foreign workers in the country, the EPF contribution on non-citizens would translate to an additional minimum annual payroll cost of RM6.6 billion, he said, also citing the minimum wage and a 13% contribution rate as an example.
The former president of the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia added that migrant workers may not be keen about contributing to EPF since it would reduce their take-home pay, the bulk of which is sent to their families back home.
In announcing the budget last week, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the government had agreed to make it mandatory for foreign workers to contribute to EPF, adding this would be done in phases. - FMT, 21/10/2024
Malaysia today is an INDEBTED country with over RM1.5 Trillion in Debt, Liabilities, etc - so, the most urgent thing to do is to REDUCE Debt - Not acquire new and additional debt. Sadly, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is SPENDING MORE that the Malaysian government earns - and that means that Malaysia's DEBT is INCREASING - not reducing.
BUDGET 2025 - the most important thing to note is whether it a SURPLUS Budget or a DEFICIT Budget. A Deficit Budget is IRRESPONSIBLE as it means that once again the government is planning to spend more that it is expected to earn - this translates in Malaysia needing to borrow even more - and Malaysia's DEBT increases...
They always use 'DEBT to GDP ratio' to state that Malaysia is still OK. So what exactly is GDP (Gross Domestic Product)? It really is a bad way of determining whether a country is doing well or not?
GDP measures the monetary value of final goods and services—that is,
those that are bought by the final user—produced in a country in a given
period of time (say a quarter or a year). It counts all of the output
generated within the borders of a country. GDP is composed of goods and
services produced for sale in the market and also includes some
nonmarket production, such as defense or education services provided by
the government. An alternative concept, gross national product, or GNP,
counts all the output of the residents of a country. So if a
German-owned company has a factory in the United States, the output of
this factory would be included in U.S. GDP, but in German GNP.
GDP - is not about the earnings of the government. It is about the monetary value of the final goods and services produced in the country by everyone not just Malaysians. It will include products and services of even foreign companies which Malaysia does not even own - the most Malaysian government can get are maybe export/import taxes, cost of permits, etc. IT certainly is not a reflection of the financial position/reality of Malaysians and/or Malaysia.
Who did the calculation of the Malaysian GDP? Can we trust them?
Would it not be better to look at GNP(Gross National Product) that excludes foreign owned goods and services.
But, what matters is the GROWING Malaysian DEBT - and ALL Malaysians are burdened with it. Malaysia itself have to pay about RM50 Billion per year for debt financing.
One billion is equivalent to 1000 million, then RM50 Billion divided by 30 million people gives us about RM1,667 each.
Now, these government DEBTS are unlike our housing and car loans, where as we make our monthly payments, the debts reduces. On the other hand, most(if not all) government debts, payment of the 'debt servicing' charges does not reduce the DEBT. It remains the same, and Malaysia will be obligated to repay the full debt amount when the due date comes. That is why the Auditor General recently said...' ...the Federal Government needs to allocate funds to repay
maturing loans totaling RM773.750bil over the next 10 years.'(see earlier post)
Yes, we will need that much money to repay DEBTS that will mature over the next 10 years, and so, where will be get that money. MORE new DEBTS to repay maturing debts? Or give over Malaysian land and property in lieu of the debt amount? One thing to note is that a country with a large debt of about RM1.5 trillion may likely get new LOANS but with less favourable terms - maybe higher annual debt servicing rates, or maybe other requirements like handing over property and rights? We do not know - and PM Anwar(our Finance Minister) should really tell us clearly so we can all understand.
During the first reign of PM Mahathir, Malaysia's debt of about RM50-RM100 Billion stayed relatively constant, not increasing, but things change under PM Abdullah Badawi and then Najib - where Malaysia's debt sky-rocketed to now about RM1.5 Trillion. PM Anwar is no better as in 2023 itself, the Malaysian Debt went UP more than RM90 Billion...not reducing. Anwar proudly proclaimed it as an 'achievement' compared to 2021 and 2022, where the NEW Debt was RM100 Billion yearly. He did not give us the NEW Debt of Malaysia for the earlier years - like 1995, 1996, 2000, 2005, 2008, 2010, 2018, 2019, 2020? Most likely the NEW DEBT would have been so much lower. Comparing with figures when the Covid pandemic hits us badly, where people could not work, companies could not operate and trade was affected badly, vacination and new medical response needed is rather shameful and wrong. When PM Anwar comes into power, things were back to normal again...
Once, I visited a kampung in Malaysia, and when I entered the home, I saw a refrigerator, TV and other electrical appliance. But, then I discovered that there was no electrical supply - and the refrigerator was used like a cupboard to store clothes...Interestingly, in Malaysia, in some communities, the 'show' of being all right(nay rich and good) is part of culture - people want to give the 'impression' that all is well and good, and we are well-off, when the reality is that we are not - we do not want to show our poverty and hardships.
So, that was the problem with Prime Ministers since Mahathir - they behave that Malaysia is a 'RICH' Country, and the government spends and spends generously giving people this and that even though reasonably Malaysia cannot afford to do so... and thus our DEBT went up and up to now become more than RM1.5 Trillion.
Sadly, the current Anwar Ibrahim is of the same 'attitude' - he started out with a SURPLUS Budget for 2023, far over the amount that the Federal Government could afford - hence new LOANS of about RM92 Billion. Same thing happened again with BUDGET 2024 - and I believe that the NEW LOAN will be about RM80 Plus Billion, more so since money expected to come in for that year from investments and dividends did not come in - based on the reason Auditor General's Reports. Hence, EXPECTED Earnings did not come in - it was much less.
Now, the BIGGEST BUDGET ever for Malaysia - BUDGET 2025 > the question is whether the amount the government will spend EQUALS the estimated amount of earnings? Or, is it again a SURPLUS Budget - where more NEW LOANS will have to be taken?
People should not be TOO HAPPY with the 'GOODIES PROMISED', but must look at whether Malaysia can really afford it at this time WITHOUT getting DEEPER into DEBTS?
The problem with our current PM Anwar, I believe, is that he wants to create an image as 'The Best Ever Prime Minister of Malaysia' that is LOVED by the people, especially the Malay and Muslims...so, one of the 'things' he did was introduce was things like "HIGHEST ever pay rise for Public Officers", and 'Highest ever spending BUDGET 2025". He may also eventually be the Prime Minister who went and visited the most number of world leaders in their own country'
The way PM Anwar Ibrahim is governing, both as Finance Minister and Prime Minister, will cause the Malaysia's Debt to increase ANNUALLY, and come GE16, we would have increased our debt by about RM400 - 450 Billion (O.45 Trillion)...
When a company cannot settle its debts - it winds-up, and the creditors can go after the remaining company's assets and property - not after the property/assets of the company's owners, the shareholders. They can go after the GUARANTORS to recover the debt, and that may result in all these guarantors being destroyed financially. The creditors can go after assets that were placed as additional security maybe the land the company owns.
But, when a COUNTRY cannot settle its DEBTS - at risk is not them Ministers or Prime Ministers that took these loans on behalf of Malaysia, it will be all Malaysians and Malaysia. Would the creditors be able to acquire Federal Government owned property/buildings? ... Did Malaysia when they borrowed say in the agreement that failure to pay the debt, the creditors can take over Malaysia's airports/ports? We do not know - because all these loan agreement are kept 'SECRET' - Many are even wondering about the ECRL Agreement - what are the terms and conditions? Is there a condition that when the ECRL is handed over to Malaysia, Malaysia will be required to generated a certain income from ECRL within a certain number of years and/or repay the full debt, failing which the ECRL will be handed over to the Chinese company to own, operate and manage? TRANSPARENCY and Accountability requires us the right to know NOW the contents of all these agreements, including DEBT agreements?
The problem with PM Anwar then(and possibly still) is his capacity to understand problems and how to effectively deal with them, according to Mahathir. Do we agree?
Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today claimed that
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was unable to address the financial crisis that
Malaysia was facing in 1990s when given the opportunity to be the
acting prime minister.
He said Anwar, who was at the time deputy prime minister, had given
the impression that he did not understand the issues that the country
was facing, which made him unable to address and solve the issues at the
time.
He said Anwar only did things based on the recommendations provided by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
"I realised that when I gave Anwar a chance to become the acting
prime minister, he was not able to handle problems, especially when it
came to financial crisis.
"It was as if he did not understand the problem, (and) of course when
we do not understand the problem, we cannot design a way to address the
issue.
"(And) at the time, he liked to follow what was advised by the IMF
and the World Bank. Hence, I decided that I could not take a leave and
came back to take over my duties," he said during the Keluar Sekejap
podcast by former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin and former Umno
information chief Shahril Hamdan.
Following this, Dr Mahathir, who is also former Langkawi member of
parliament, said he established a new committee outside the cabinet's
jurisdiction to get more in-depth opinions from financial experts.
He added that Anwar, however, was still given the chance to provide views and opinions in the committee.
"Cabinet, as usual, did not have experts, hence, we took experts from
outside. I set up a new committee outside the cabinet as I wanted
bankers, financiers and lawyers to come together so we could listen to
their opinions.
"Anwar was also there and I still allowed him to give his opinion,
however, he was more inclined towards the advice given by the IMF and
the World Bank."
Dr Mahathir also claimed that Anwar was adamant about following the
recommendations, despite warnings that the country might not have enough
money to pay people's salaries.
"There were many problems that were caused by the fall in currency value and he followed IMF's recommendations.
"For example, let's say a loan was unsuccessful and non-performing,
it (the loan) should be reduced to 30 per cent when it already reached
60 per cent.
"(And) when we reprimand him, he deliberately lowered our currency and we became poor when the currency was low.
"Because of that, our currency dropped and we became poor, where in
the past we could buy things for RM100, we now need to pay RM120 or more
to get them."
The worry of many is that PM Anwar may at the end of the day resort to taking IMF and/or World Bank loans, and history has shown us how so many countries took this option - how it adversely affected the people, local businesses and even the country itself.
So, if PM Anwar and the present government is acting irresponsibly, in a mannert which may lead Malaysia into a worse state of affairs - that will lead to increased sufferings of Malaysia, now and definitely including future generations, then we must decide whether we are OK with this or not.
So, do not simply be HAPPY with the 'GOODIES' in the BUDGET 2025 - but look at whether we really can afford it considering the amount of monies the Federal Government will actually earn. Will we be FORCED into taking NEW additional LOANS again?
I believe that anyone, including the government, should spend according its means - without acquiring NEW DEBTS. In fact, we should be trying to reduce our debts, or even eliminating it completely. We should strive for Malaysia to be a DEBT-FREE Country.
Singapore is a poster child for fiscal prudence. It almost always runs a
budget surplus, and its constitution virtually prohibits borrowing to
pay for current spending. - Financial Times, 24/3/2024
Public debt is one of the great problems of our era. The existing
debt load is unprecedented. And what is worse, it has been accumulated
to finance short-term spending. We have nothing to show for it.
In the past, the only reason a country took on a significant amount
of debt was because an exogenous event taking place, such as a world
war. And the will to defend their county made governments willing to
spend recklessly.
However, the debt governments have taken on in recent decades have
mostly been used to finance frivolous spending. In other words, instead
of living within our means, we have opted to continually go into debt,
not worrying about how that debt would be paid back in the future.
The population has shown a high degree of ignorance and selfishness.
And politicians have taken advantage of that, making promises to the
public with the only goal of being elected to office.
The result is that virtually all the world’s major economies are in a
very vulnerable situation. Many officials try to justify it with the
argument that high public debt is the price for having a developed
economy. But that could not be further from the truth.
Rich countries are not rich because they owe a lot of money. Debt
only helps in the short term. In the long term however, debt creates
many problem. The reality is that rich countries are rich despite their high public debt.
With that in mind, we wanted to highlight 10 prosperous countries
with hardly any public debt. It will help make the point that a country
can both be rich and have its public finances in order.
Additionally, all these countries are very different from each other.
They are of different sizes, on different continents, different levels
of economic development and standard of living, and very different
economic models.
But they all share one thing in common: enough fiscal discipline to keep the country’s public finances healthy - Clear Finances
Anwar's 2024 Budget was a DEFICIT BUDGET - requiring new loans of RM85 Billion, and 2025 Budget will again need new debt of RM80 Billion. REDUCING amount of NEW DEBT is not the way - we should be REDUCING the amount of Existing DEBTS/LIABILITIES.
PM Anwar and the current government lacks FISCAL DISCIPLINE - when what we should get is really a SURPLUS BUDGET whereby that surplus can REDUCE existing DEBTS.
We saw the removal of SUBSIDIES for Diesel, and in 2025 the removal of subsidies of petrol RON95. But what is missing is the development of localized public transport ion every towns that will encourage the citizenry to take public busses or public rail services. We need Public Busses that travels to every Tamans/Kampungs - where no one will required to walk more than 500 meters to get into these public busses from their homes/workplaces/etc. If one has to walk 1 or more kilometers to get to the bus stops, it will simply not work for a generation that is so used to travel using private cars and motorbikes directly from home to intended locations. BUT no plans to improve local public transport, be it by busses or rail in every town in Malaysia in the BUDGET 2025? As fuel prices increase, driving own cars/bikes become more expensive and economically problematic...
REMEMBER, if the people do not speak up - then the government will think that the people are HAPPY with the proposed BUDGET.
Dr M: Anwar failed in 1997 financial crisis
By Qistina Sallehuddin, Shahrin Aizat Noorshahrizam -
November 13, 2023 @ 4:08pm
Former
prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today claimed that Datuk Seri
Anwar Ibrahim was unable to address the financial crisis that Malaysia
was facing in 1990s when given the opportunity to be the acting prime
minister. - Screengrab via YouTube/Keluar Sekejap
KUALA
LUMPUR: Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today claimed
that Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was unable to address the financial crisis
that Malaysia was facing in 1990s when given the opportunity to be the
acting prime minister.
He said Anwar, who was at the time deputy prime minister, had given
the impression that he did not understand the issues that the country
was facing, which made him unable to address and solve the issues at the
time.
He said Anwar only did things based on the recommendations provided by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
"I realised that when I gave Anwar a chance to become the acting
prime minister, he was not able to handle problems, especially when it
came to financial crisis.
"It was as if he did not understand the problem, (and) of course when
we do not understand the problem, we cannot design a way to address the
issue.
"(And) at the time, he liked to follow what was advised by the IMF
and the World Bank. Hence, I decided that I could not take a leave and
came back to take over my duties," he said during the Keluar Sekejap
podcast by former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin and former Umno
information chief Shahril Hamdan.
Following this, Dr Mahathir, who is also former Langkawi member of
parliament, said he established a new committee outside the cabinet's
jurisdiction to get more in-depth opinions from financial experts.
He added that Anwar, however, was still given the chance to provide views and opinions in the committee.
"Cabinet, as usual, did not have experts, hence, we took experts from
outside. I set up a new committee outside the cabinet as I wanted
bankers, financiers and lawyers to come together so we could listen to
their opinions.
"Anwar was also there and I still allowed him to give his opinion,
however, he was more inclined towards the advice given by the IMF and
the World Bank."
Dr Mahathir also claimed that Anwar was adamant about following the
recommendations, despite warnings that the country might not have enough
money to pay people's salaries.
"There were many problems that were caused by the fall in currency value and he followed IMF's recommendations.
"For example, let's say a loan was unsuccessful and non-performing,
it (the loan) should be reduced to 30 per cent when it already reached
60 per cent.
"(And) when we reprimand him, he deliberately lowered our currency and we became poor when the currency was low.
"Because of that, our currency dropped and we became poor, where in
the past we could buy things for RM100, we now need to pay RM120 or more
to get them." - NST, 13/11/2023
DEBT did not go down - but WENT UP - increase of RM92.918bil.Remember, he said that in 2023, the new DEBTS will amount to RM93 Billion.
The Federal Government's debt was
recorded at RM1.173 trillion in 2023, an increase of RM92.918bil or 8.6%
compared to RM1.080 trillion in 2022, says the Auditor-General’s
Report.
The Report also advised that the Federal Government should pay serious attention to new borrowings.
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT Guarantees increased - who did it stand guarantee for?
"Guarantee Commitments also
increased by RM3.288bil or 1.5% to RM227.404bil compared to RM224.116bil
in 2022,"
Failed in even maintaining dividends and profits of GLCs. etc - it DROPPED
The federal government saw weaker gains from its investments with
dividends dipping by RM9.756bil in 2023, a 17% drop compared to 2022. The
dividends received decreased to RM46.059bil in 2023, down from
RM55.815bil in 2022, according to the Auditor-General’s Report Series 3
released on Monday (Oct 14). The report attributed this decline
to reduced dividends received from eight government-linked companies
(GLCs) and one statutory body, which dropped by 22.4% to RM42.786bil in
2023. ...Additionally, dividends from
Bank Negara Malaysia decreased by RM2.25bil (45%) to only RM2.75bil in
2023 compared to the RM5bil it received in 2022.
Explain this Finance Minister Anwar Ibrahim... Get a better FINANCE MINISTER, Mr Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
...the Federal Government needs to allocate funds to repay
maturing loans totaling RM773.750bil over the next 10 years.
That does not include the annual debt servicing - which now about RM45 Billion. When the loans mature, Malaysia will have to back the total loan amount as well. What is the maturity date of these LOANS?
Anyone will reasonably know that it is better to REDUCE DEBTS - but Anwar Ibrahim just reduced the annual borrowing amount from RM100 billion in 2021 and 2022 (the time Malaysia faced the Covid-19 Pandemic) to RM 93Billion. Come GE16, Anwar would have increased Malaysia's debt by maybe RM350 Billion > so problem of DEBT just became worse. HIGHER amount of our BUDGET for DEBT SERVICING, when it could be better used for the people.
BEST thing for Malaysia is that DEBT is reduced - so more monies can be spend for flood mitigation projects, maintaining schools, healthcare, and needed welfare assistance for old-folk (since EPF scheme failed to provide effective 'old age savings' enough to sustain life from 55(or 60) until death).
Spend what you earn - so NO to Deficit Budget( meaning you have to borrow again to spend what the government plans to do) - Let us have a BUDGET SURPLUS, meaning spending less that what Malaysia earns, and this surplus can be used to actively reduce Malaysia's DEBT.
Government often use terms like 'Debt to GDP Ratio' to give us an impression that ALL is well - but the truth is that Malaysians prefers the DEBT to be reduced, and ultimately eliminated.Everyone knows the dangers of debts... so, REDUCE DEBT - used money saved for annual debt servicing (more than RM40 Billion) to help the people.
FINANCE MINISTER must resign ...
We learned the dangers of when the Prime Minister is also the Prime Minister - and even PH gave us the assurance that the PM shall never be the Finance Minister.
The Prime Minister is a important first 'check and balance' to ensure that his Finance Minister or other Ministers do not do wrong. If any Minister does anything - the BLAME or responsibility is on the PM because it is he alone that chooses his Cabinet members and decide what their portfolio his...that according to the Federal Constitution. So, a Prime Minister cannot say that it is NOT HIS Fault - because it was decided and done by some Minister.
How does Malaysian Cabinet operate? When Cabinet decides, is there a requirement of two third vote, or just simple majority - or a mentality that I will not interfere with whatever a Minister decides to do with regard matters within his/her portfolio. I I support whatever he/she wants to do, and he/she supports whatever I want to do in the Ministry and matters related to MY Ministry.
Almost 2 years, and Anwar is failing - maybe someone else can be Prime Minister (some other MP from this current 'Unity' government - Muhyiddin stepped aside for Ismail Sabri...so, maybe Anwar should be changed with Prime Minister X!?
If we continue with Anwar - then the debts will increase, liabilities will increase, performance of GLC's will decline..
Anwar Ibrahim is no different from the past BN PMs - he still continues the practice of 'political appointment'. One of his first was his own daughter..
The 'BAIL OUTS' continue, the debt cancellation continue, ... He is but a good Santa Claus - who ignores the reality.
His PLAN seems to be to ensure that he remains PM until GE16, and beyond. He has a lot of 'sweet' promises - but sadly when he comes to action...the slogan 'Janji Tidak Ditepati"(Promises Not Kept) may be applicable again.
WATCH the upcoming BUDGET - another DEFICIT BUDGET which means more government borrowing? Or will it finally be a SURPLUS Budget - where we will have money to reduce Malaysia's debt and other liabilities?
Govt debt went up to RM1.173 trillion in 2023, says Auditor-General
By KHOO GEK SAN, MARTIN CARVALHO and GERARD GIMINO
Nation
Monday, 14 Oct 2024
KUALA LUMPUR: The Federal Government's debt was
recorded at RM1.173 trillion in 2023, an increase of RM92.918bil or 8.6%
compared to RM1.080 trillion in 2022, says the Auditor-General’s
Report.
In the Report 3/2024 released on Monday (Oct 14), the
debt consists of Domestic Loans amounting to RM1.143 trillion or 97.5%
of the total Federal Debt, and Foreign Debt totalling RM29.851bil or
2.5%.
"Domestic Loans increased by RM92.580bil or 8.8%, while Foreign Debt rose by RM0.338bil or 1.1%.
"The
Federal Liabilities position at the end of 2023 showed an increase,
with the Federal Liabilities to GDP Ratio at 81.8% compared to 78% in
2022.
"This
is due to the nominal GDP growth rate in 2023 being 1.6% slower
compared to 15.8% in 2022. The Federal Debt to GDP Ratio in 2023 was
64.3%, up from 60.2% in 2022.
"Guarantee Commitments also
increased by RM3.288bil or 1.5% to RM227.404bil compared to RM224.116bil
in 2022," the report stated.
The report also mentioned that to improve Federal Debt
management, the government implemented fiscal reforms with the approval
of the Public Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act 2023 (Act 850) in
Parliament on Oct 11 last year.
The Report also advised that the Federal Government should pay serious attention to new borrowings.
This
step is aimed at focusing on financing loan repayments that will
mature, as the Federal Government needs to allocate funds to repay
maturing loans totalling RM773.750bil over the next 10 years.
The
audit recommends prudent federal debt management to reduce debt and
liability exposure and monitor rationalisation and consolidation
efforts.
The targets are set for a deficit not exceeding 3% of
GDP, national debt not exceeding 60% of GDP, and Financial Guarantees
not exceeding 25% of GDP, aligning with fiscal objectives under Act 850,
the report said. - Star, 14/10/2024
Federal government's investment dividends plummet by RM9.756bil in 2023, audit reveals
By BENJAMIN LEE and FAZLEENA AZIZ Nation
Monday, 14 Oct 2024 1:51 PM MYT
PETALING JAYA: The federal government saw weaker gains from its investments with dividends dipping by RM9.756bil in 2023, a 17% drop compared to 2022.
The dividends received decreased to RM46.059bil in 2023, down from RM55.815bil in 2022, according to the Auditor-General’s Report Series 3 released on Monday (Oct 14).
The report attributed this decline to reduced dividends received from eight government-linked companies (GLCs) and one statutory body, which dropped by 22.4% to RM42.786bil in 2023.
"The GLCs with the sharpest decline were Petroliam Nasional Berhad and Prokhas Sdn Bhd, with dividends falling by RM10bil (20%) and RM49.71mil (89.3%), respectively, compared to 2022," the report stated.
Additionally, dividends from Bank Negara Malaysia decreased by RM2.25bil (45%) to only RM2.75bil in 2023 compared to the RM5bil it received in 2022.
The report also highlighted that Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan Berhad did not declare any dividend payments in 2023, despite recording a profit, whereas it had previously paid RM7.26mil in dividends to the federal government in 2022. - Star, 14/10/2024
Prime
Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the Federal Government's
increase in debt was recorded at 8.6 per cent last year compared to 10.2
per cent in 2022. -- Bernama Pic
KUALA
LUMPUR— Malaysia's federal government managed to curb its debt growth
in 2023, with the increase in debt slowing to 8.6 percent from 10.2
percent in 2022.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the total
Federal Government debt for 2023 stood at RM1,172.5 billion, accounting
for 64.3 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP), compared to
RM1,079.6 billion or 60.3 percent of GDP in 2022.
Anwar attributed this decrease in debt growth to successful fiscal
consolidation measures that reduced the fiscal deficit to RM91.4 billion
in 2023, down from RM99.5 billion in 2022.
The Federal Government's debt composition in 2023 consisted
of domestic debt amounting to RM1,142.7 billion or 97.5 percent and
offshore loans amounting to RM29.8 billion or 2.5 percent of the total
debt.
In response to a question from Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin regarding
government loans and debt status, Anwar stated that loans issued by the
federal government in 2023 totaled RM226.6 billion, a two percent
decrease from 2022's RM230.9 billion.
This reduction in loans was primarily due to a decrease in new
issuances to RM92.6 billion and RM134 billion for refinancing matured
debts in 2023.
Anwar emphasised that all debt issuances in 2023 and 2022 were
obtained domestically through the issuance of Malaysian Government
Securities (MGS) instruments, Malaysian Government Investment Issues
(MGII), and treasury bills.
The Federal Government's debt and liabilities exposure position
amounted to RM1,532.3 billion or 84 percent of GDP at the end of
December 2023, taking into account guaranteed commitments and other
liabilities.
Despite the debt reduction, Anwar affirmed the government's
commitment to further lowering debt levels as targeted under the Public
Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act 2023 (Act 850), aiming for an
overall debt level below 60 percent of GDP in the medium term.
He expressed confidence that the government could gradually reduce
the fiscal deficit and debt levels without compromising national
development and welfare, enhancing its credibility as a responsible
entity. - NST, 7/3/2024
The moment FATWAs were issued with regard to GISBH, a business/company and its related companies and individuals - the DANGERS of Fatwas to everyone was highlighted.
Workers - can they suddenly lose jobs and/or means of living if and when their employer falls victim to a Fatwa?
Those who have business dealings/relationships with such companies and/or persons affected by FATWA?
Those who have some interest in the ownership of such companies/individuals - as shareholders, creditors, etc. (Note many business operate on credit - it is not cash on delivery, it is pay later arrangements?
Business deal with consumers, and they are of all ethnic groups, religions and even nationalities? Acting on the basis of FATWA or suspicion of religious deviation can mean establishments can be shut down? How do I get my laundry? If it was an insurance company, what happens to my insurance or maybe even investments?
GISBH may be the first company affected by FATWAs - so any company/businesses MAY fall prey to such FATWAs - and the government may react or sometimes 'over-react' and freeze accounts, shut down premises, etc...
What happened to GISBH is disturbing? It started with a crackdown on many(not just one) children's homes on the allegation of child abuse, sexual abuse - then, one after another crime of the 'GISBH' emerges - and a 'crackdown' on GISBH began - accounts frozen, businesses closed, property seized -- and it was not just restricted to the children homes, or even the owner company - but seems like anything and everything linked to GISBH? This was MOST ODD - for normally perpetrators are usually individuals. And, then, we ask why the 'crackdown' seems to be anything linked to GISBH - and a main reason was because they were 'Islamic Deviants' - But then, prior to the arrest, there was NO Fatwa on GISBH - so, did the police and Anwar Ibrahim's government act prematurely? Did they decide on their own, that EVERYONE linked to GISBH were 'Islamic Deviants'? Was there any Syariah Court proceeding, that after trial, decided they were Islamic Deviants? Anyway, the penalty for such an offence is merely a maximum of 3 years imprisonment - and Syariah Courts have no power to order actions against their company and/or other income generating activities. 9/11
GISBH - What is happening? Are the actions in accordance with law? PAS
raises concern about unfair targetting of business premises?
Has the Registrar of Company decided that GISBH is illegal, and thus was shut down? Did any of the Local Government(Local Council) whose permission is needed for any business to operate within their jurisdiction, and this permit is an annual permit that is constantly reviewed, cancel or REVOKE the needed permission to operate these businesses?
ISLAM - well there are many different schools and differences between various practicing Muslims. The fact that what branch or type of Islam was immaterial, as our Federal Constitution, in Article 3(1) just says '(1) Islam is the religion of the Federation; but other religions may be practiced...' . The Constitution does not limit ISLAM to a particular school or type.
The definition of Islam according to the Federal Constitution should
be left broad and not confined to any one interpretation for the sake of
a peaceful co-existence, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia
(Suhakam) said today. Its commissioner Datuk Seri Mohd Hishamudin
Md Yunus said Article 3 of the Constitution establishes Islam as the
religion of the federation, but does not provide any specify anything
beyond that, including denomination or school of jurisprudence. “It does not say whether it should be Sunni Islam, and if so which mazhab (school of jurisprudence).“So in my personal view it should not be confined to Sunni Islam,
especially in relation to the Sunni-Shiah divide,” Hishamudin, a former
Court of Appeal judge, said during Suhakam's 20th anniversary forum at
Istana Hotel.In Malaysia, only the Sunni denomination of Islam and its Shafie school of jurisprudence are considered official by Putrajaya. Other minority denominations such as Shiah and Ahmadi, and also the so-called “liberal Islam”, are considered deviants. - Malay Mail, 12/9/2018
In MUFTI (FEDERAL TERRITORIES) BILL 2024, Section 3(2) inadvertently defines Islam 'narrowly' when it states the qualifications of the Mufti
(2) A person is qualified to be a Mufti or a Deputy Mufti if—
(a) he is a citizen of Malaysia; (b) he is an Ahli Sunah Waljamaah; and (c) he has expertise in Islamic Law.
(3) The appointment of the Mufti and the Deputy Mufti shall be published in the Gazette. (4) For the purposes of this section, “Ahli Sunah Waljamaah” means any person who upholds to the Quran and Sunah— (a) in respect of akidah, by following the principles sourced from al-Asyairah and al-Maturidiyah stream; (b) in respect of syariah, by following the Mazhab Syafie or in certain circumstances follow any one of the Mazhab Hanafi, Maliki or Hanbali or legal ijtihad which has been decided by the Fatwa Committee; and (c) in respect of sufism, by following the principles brought by Imam Junaid al-Baghdadi and Imam al-Ghazali.
Besides, large differences between Sunni and Shia, there are also various streams, Mazhabs, etc - here the Fatwa Committee will also be deciding matters about other Mazhabs like Hanafi, Maliki or Hambali. What would the people of the 3 Mazhabs say about allowing people from the Syafie Mazhab deciding for them?
How many Sunni Muslims are there in Malaysia? How many from the 4 different Mazhabs - Syafie, Hanafi, Maliki or Hambali? How many follow other streams, different from al-Asyairah and al-Maturidiyah stream.
Wondering whether Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim plans to amend the Federal Constitution limiting the definition of Islam to just Sunni, Mazhab Syafie and following the principles sourced from al-Asyairah and al-Maturidiyah stream? What will happen to the rest of the Muslims? Will they be considered non-Muslim according the Madani Government? Or will they still be judges as 'Muslim Deviants'? Best, then to define them as non-Muslims - that will give them the status of 'OTHER RELIGION' and as such, as per the Federal Constitution says '...other religions may be practised in peace and harmony in any part of the Federation...'
Should the compliance of Syariah law only be required compliance by ONLY Sunni, Mazhab Syafie and following the principles sourced from al-Asyairah and al-Maturidiyah stream? Others should be judged by persons from their respective Mazhabs, streams of thought.....?
Dozens of Shiites have been rounded up recently in the Sunni
Muslim-majority country, including several foreigners, fuelling fears
that religious authorities are stepping up a crackdown on adherents of
the minority sect.
Around the world, Shiite Muslims – who are far outnumbered by Sunnis,
and follow some different doctrines and rituals – say they face
discrimination from authorities and others who accuse them of being
deviants...In September, religious enforcement officers and police raided a series
of clandestine gatherings by Shiites commemorating Ashura, which marks
the seventh-century killing of Prophet Mohammed’s grandson...In another raid near Kuala Lumpur, community leader Kamil
Zuhairi Abdul Aziz and 21 other Shiites were rounded up at the centre he
runs while prayer books and speakers were seized.Such raids, which have been happening on and off since 2010,
have “created a climate of fear among the Shiite community“, the
53-year-old told AFP.And a private gathering of some 60 Pakistani Shiites was
disrupted when religious enforcement officers burst in, although none
was arrested. - New Straits Times, 25/11/2019
The reaction of 'not bothered' with this issue because it is not about our religion is WRONG. We should be considered about everyone, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or nationality because they are all our fellow human beings, and we will speak out against injustice or violations of human rights, including right to freedom of religion. If that 'logic' applies, then Malaysian should not be bothered about human rights violations happening outside Malaysia like Palestine, Myanmar, Lebanon, etc...
What is sad is that we are not hearing much opposition from the MPs in Pakatan Harapan, Muslim or Non-Muslim, from DAP,PKR, Amanah or UPKO? Silence sometimes implies CONSENT - and this means we need to seriously re-evaluate our continued support for this coalition that once promised REFORM...???
When it comes to RELIGION, it is personal - and everyone will have their own understanding of it and its requirements. We may appreciate some interpretations of some persons, maybe end up following it all, some of it or not at all. In Malaysia, there are various religions - but the LAW only applies to Muslims, where if found guilty, they can end up in prison, suffer whipping or needed to pay fines. The question thus is whether the State should by law decide of the 'RIGHT" Islam to be practiced in Malaysia, and the sentences to be imposed in the event of non-compliance?
Other religions also have laws. The Catholic Church have its laws 'The Canon Law' and even in Malaysia, it is enforced by the Church's Tribunal. Nothing about religions or religious groups having their own laws - and enforcing them - but the State should not?
How can any humans say with 100% certainty that this is what GOD meant or requires us to do. ONLY God knows and individual believers act according to what they believe 'their' own God wants...Should the State interfere in religious beliefs?
Following the GISBH 'crackdown', where one the allegations is that they are 'Islamic deviants' - all State laws that 'intepret' or dictate what a man/woman of a particular religion should do or not do needs to be re-looked at?
Talking about GISBH, well they operate in many countries other than Malaysia. Has any countries, including Saudi Arabia, even done the minimum by issuing a "fatwa" saying that they are Islamic deviants, or is it just happening in a few States in Malaysia?
Anyway, some reports in media about the Bill for your reading pleasure
What is the Mufti Bill, and why is there resistance from some among Muslim scholars and the monarchy?
The
Mufti (Federal Territories) Bill 2024 is being deliberated following
resistance from some in the Muslim community. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa
By Zurairi A.R. and Anis Zalani
Wednesday, 17 Jul 2024 7:00 AM MYT
KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 — Last week, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has conceded
that Putrajaya is still deliberating the Mufti (Federal Territories)
Bill 2024, following disagreement from parts of the Muslim community.
Anwar
also said that he would defer to the expertise of Muslim scholars on
the matter, while guaranteeing that the position of the Sunni sect in
Malaysia remains unchallenged.
So, what is the Bill about?
The
Bill aims to define the role and responsibilities of the mufti in the
Federal Territories, which include Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya.
To help understand this, the following points need to be made:
In Islamic teachings, a “mufti” is an Islamic jurist who is qualified to issue a “fatwa”.
A “fatwa” is a learned opinion on a point of Islamic law. In general, a fatwa is non-binding for Muslims.
However,
in Malaysia, a mufti also usually handles the Islamic administration in
their respective state as Islamic affairs comes under the jurisdiction
of the Malay Rulers.
Additionally, a fatwa from a state’s mufti can be enforced on Muslims there if it is gazetted into law.
This Bill would outline a mufti’s duties in the FT that, among others, include:
Advising the King on Shariah law (Section 4)
Issuing fatwas (Section 10)
Determining the Qibla, or the direction for prayer (Section 17)
Other important points include:
A
court can require the mufti to provide a written opinion on Shariah law
if needed, but it would not be binding. A mufti cannot be called to
testify in any court. (Section 15)
The mufti is protected from
any legal proceedings if their actions were done “in good faith” and
“with a reasonable belief” that they were necessary to implement any
provisions in the Act. (Section 32)
It also proposes the
formation of several committees to oversee fatwas (Section 7), Islamic
astronomy (Section 19), lunar sightings (Section 22), and Islamic
religious education (Section 26).
On
July 2, the Bill was tabled for its first reading in the Dewan Rakyat
by the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs)
Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.
The
Mufti (FT) Bill stipulates several requirements for the position,
leading some to call them restrictions. — Picture by Choo Choy May.
Points of contentions
Some provisions within the Bill have caused controversy, leading to resistance among some religious scholars and politicians.
The
controversy centres on the requirements to be a mufti and issue fatwas
in Sections 3(2) and 3(4), which include adherence to the:
Sunni denomination
Shafie school of jurisprudence
Ash'arism and Maturidism schools of theology
Teachings of Imam al-Ghazali and Imam Junaid in Sufism
What do these mean?
Sunni
— The Sunni are the biggest branch in Islam, comprising around nine in
10 Muslims worldwide. The requirement would effectively exclude other
denominations such as Shia and Ahmadis, which are generally regarded as
either heretic or deviant locally.
Shafie — This
is one of the four schools of jurisprudence in Sunni Islam, also called
“mazhab”, which influence Shariah laws. The other three are Hanafi,
Maliki and Hanbali, although none is opposed to any other. The Bill
states that a fatwa can also refer to other schools besides Shafie if
needed.
Ash'arism and Maturidism — There are
several schools of theology in Sunni Islam, with the other popular one
being Atharism. Their opinions differ on matters such as rationalism,
free will, and strictness in interpreting religious texts.
Imam al-Ghazali and Imam Junaid
— There are many prolific teachers of Sufism, which concerns the
spiritual aspects of Islam. The two were respected Persian polymaths
educated in Baghdad, with the former also known as Algazel in the
Western world.
Perlis Mufti Datuk Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin was among the biggest critics of the Mufti (FT) Bill. — Picture by Mukhriz Hazim
Where is the resistance coming from?
Perlis
Mufti Datuk Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin was among the biggest critics of
the restrictions, calling for Putrajaya to represent the diversity
within the public and the religion.
On his Facebook page on July
2, Asri warned that “rigidity would lead to fanaticism and hatred
between the people and the government”.
“It is not
appropriate for the Government to pass any legislation or enactment that
restricts the thinking of the people, seizes freedom of thought and
academic freedom, especially in the name of religion. The Madani
Government should adopt a ‘civilised’ approach or bring broad and
open-minded civilization thinking.”
He was also
supported by his state’s Ruler, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin, who said that he
did not consent to the Conference of Rulers being named as a supporter
of the Bill. He has since released a royal statement backing Asri’s
arguments.
Tan
Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, the president of Islamist party PAS, has also
called for the Bill to reviewed, criticising the need for an “official”
Islamic strain. He was quoted by PAS' news HarakahDaily telling the
media at the sidelines of Kelantan MBI International Conference 024 on
July 10:
“The government cannot set such a stipulation
because [Imam Malik, Imam Shafie, Imam Hanafi or Imam Hanbali] had
never issued any directive for their thoughts to be used as a guide for a
country. They only mentioned that Islam should be the religion of the
state.”
However, nine state muftis have expressed
their support so far: Federal Territories, Perak, Selangor, Sabah,
Pahang, Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Terengganu, and Melaka. - Malay Mail, 17/7/2024
Zaid fears can’t dine at his fav sushi/oyster bar @ BSC anymore if Mufti Bill (FT) 2024 becomes a law
FORMER de facto law minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has taken a
potshot at the Madani government for embarking on an authoritarian rule
by forging ahead with the Mufti Bill 2024.
Except for Perlis Mufti Datuk Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin a.k.a. Dr
MAZA, he expressed concern that “there is no objection from Sabah,
Sarawak nor DAP” on the matter.
“Surprisingly, nothing from bodies that claim themselves as champions
of democratic and multi-religious rule in Malaysia,” lamented the
opposition-slant UMNO member in a X post.
“What’s so bad about the proposed law? It makes or converts a fatwa, traditionally considered in Islamic jurisprudence as an advisory opinion, into law.
“Suppose the FT Mufti issues a fatwa (a ruling on Islamic law by a recognised authority) that all tobaccos are haram or Muslims must only eat in restaurants with a halal certificate on display, such law will be enforced throughout FT.”
For context, the government plans to
proceed with the second and third readings of the Mufti Bill (Federal
Territories) 2024 on Oct 16 or 17, according to Minister in the Prime
Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.
The first reading of the bill had already taken place during the last
Parliament session. Na’im added that a decision regarding the Mufti
Bill is expected to be known this year with the Bill being debated in
the Dewan Rakyat before being presented to the Dewan Negara.
Muslims rob of constitutional rights
Previously, media reports indicated that the first reading took place
in July with the Mufti Bill (FT) 2024 being one of three bills related
to Islamic affairs presented for amendment.
The bill aims to define the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah from the
perspectives of the al-Asyairah and al-Maturidiah schools of thought.
Zaid further contended that once the Parliament passes the said law,
other states will follow, eventually resulting in “the whole Federation
being ruled by Muftis”.
“If I walk in to have my sushi oroyster
bar at BSC (Bangsar Shopping Centre), I commit an offence for such
places do not usually carry the halal sign,” fumed the former defence
counsel of now incarcerated former premier Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
“Do I have any personal liberties left, a constitutional right to eat wherever I please? Under Madani, no.
“What happens to democracy and religious freedom? What if the Muftis
ruled that Muslims could no longer shake hands with their female
colleagues? Or deny Muslims to wish Merry Christmas? Or Happy
Deepavali?”
In Zaid’s opinion, there is now no need to pass such a law at the
state legislative assembly level given a mere issuance of an edict or fatwa can be deemed as suffice.
“We have elections in the country to select the people’s
representatives who then make laws for the country. Now, an unelected
religious officer called the Mufti can do that on his own,” the
founder of Zaid Ibrahim & Co, the largest private law firm in
Malaysia (which he no longer owns) further ranted.
“Don’t the Malay rulers worry that they may be deprived of their
powers one day? What if there is an edict that the position of Malay
Rulers as head of the religion is un-Islamic since the Khalifah has to be vested in a person who is well-learned in Islamic knowledge and qualified Imam?
“The wise guys in Putrajaya need to be careful in their relentless
drive towards Islamisation of the country. They may not like what they
wish for.” – Oct 7, 2024, Focus Malaysia
COMMENT | Why you should be worried about the FT Mufti Bill
Mariam Mokhtar
Published: Oct 11, 2024
COMMENT
| Being a Muslim used to be so easy. One believed in Allah and observed
the five pillars of Islam to lead one’s life as a good and responsible
Muslim.
Today, conservative Muslims and wannabe clerics do the
religious equivalent of blinding one with science. They litter their
speeches with Arabic and line their policies with tongue-twisting
theological phrases, to convince the masses that they are super
religious or brilliant.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
It
is doubtful that many Malays can comprehend what they are saying, and
some Malaysians would probably agree that quantum mechanics would be
easier to understand.
On
July 2, one of the most oppressive bills to be tabled in Parliament,
the Federal Territories Mufti Bill 2024, had its first reading in the
Dewan Rakyat.
Mohd Na’im Mokhtar
The
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Mohd
Na’im Mokhtar introduced the bill and unsurprisingly, few of us paid any
attention to it.
This is probably because every other day, at
least one religious issue will dominate the news, despite there being
more important priorities to focus on.
Sweeping powers
Next week, the bill will have its second and third reading in Parliament, before it is voted on and made into law.
This time, it must not escape our intense scrutiny yet again.
When
it was first tabled, few of us were aware. Had Muslim MPs been lobbied
to support this oppressive bill, while non-Muslim MPs had no clue what
it was all about?
You should be worried about this bill because it represents a fundamental attack on our personal freedom and our democracy.
If passed, the bill will give unprecedented sweeping powers to unelected officials to dictate what we can, or cannot do.
Enslaved by religion
Months earlier, the Umno Baru Youth leader, Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh warned non-Muslims not to interfere with Islamic matters.
So,
were the halal issues at the time, being used as a smokescreen for
laying the groundwork to silence any opposition by non-Muslim MPs
towards this controversial bill?
Malaya
may have achieved Merdeka 67 years ago, but Muslims are still enslaved
by religion. The Malay mind is mummified and shaped by ignorance and
dogma, while the non-Malays have been browbeaten into submission and
silence.
The government will attempt to push this bill before the rakyat realises how serious the matter is.
These are the worst bits of the bill.
The
bill is unconstitutional and our blind submission to it will mean that
we transition from a democracy to authoritarian rule in Malaysia.
The
bill is divisive, it gives unelected people, like the muftis, whose
qualifications we do not know, absolute control over our lives.
Will the muftis have more power than the king when it comes to religious matters?
Interpretation of fatwa
Although
we know that a fatwa is merely an opinion, this is after all Malaysia,
and the fatwa will be interpreted according to the whims of these
muftis.
They will have over-arching powers to sanction anyone whom
they think has broken the fatwa. The fatwa will be set in stone just
like any law that has been passed.
At the same time, the same
unelected muftis will be immune from prosecution. What sort of
governance is this? Lives may be destroyed, but these muftis will escape
punishment.
When one state adopts it, others will follow suit, including Sarawak and Sabah.
You
may not think it, but the bill will have serious consequences because
it is a clash between two sets of laws, civil and syariah.
In
1988, two significant amendments to Article 1216 of the Federal
Constitution were made. Our supreme law is the Federal Constitution, but
ever since 1988, the powers and jurisdiction of the syariah courts have
slowly been expanded beyond the limits permitted by the Constitution.
In
October 2024, the syariah courts will overstep their boundaries yet
again, and the civil courts will be powerless to stop them because of
the way Article 121(1A) has been interpreted.
Non-Muslims also impacted
Despite what the non-Muslims will have been told, the bill will affect us all, both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Perlis ruler Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail objected to the use of the Council of Rulers’ name to support the bill.
Perlis mufti Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin, another critic, warned about Sunni sectarianism and that “rigidity would lead to fanaticism and hatred between the people and the government”.
PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang wanted the bill to be reviewed and he criticised the need for an “official” Islamic strain.
When the Perlis ruler objected, Anwar said the experts would deliberate on the matter.
Controlling dissent
In
21st-century Malaysia, this is how the rakyat is kept strictly in line.
Politicians control dissent by bullying us with draconian laws, while
the muftis claim to save our souls via fire-and-brimstone sermons,
promises of rewards in heaven, and threats of endless punishment in
hell.
In a nutshell, both politicians and clergy carve up the nation for themselves.
They
enter into a marriage of convenience because they need one another to
maintain their hold on power, and specifically to control you.
We thought that Na’im was one of the more “progressive” syariah judges. We were wrong.
Was Na’im under instruction to implement this bill as part of the bigger plan to Islamise Malaysia?
Or
is the FT Mufti Bill 2024 part of Anwar’s unfinished business? Is he
merely completing what he started in 1982 but was unable to finalise
because he was ousted from office in 1998?
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