CLIMATE catastrophe is no longer a distant threat; it’s at our doorstep. With soaring temperatures and devastating losses, this issue has become significant. However, some policies have worsened the situation.
For instance, consider Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent statement. He has decided to end government subsidies for homes with highly high’ electricity. The issue is that utilities like air conditioners and water heaters are very much necessities – no longer ‘luxuries – amid the escalating temperatures.
The term ‘extremely high usage’ is vague. Without a clear definition, it’s hard to understand where we stand. With the price and temperatures rising, one wonders if this is the ‘better Malaysia’ we were promised.
Consider this: if a typical household’s bill is RM350.56 and their subsidy is RM237.80, the bill would surge to RM588.36 without government contribution. Given the national median salary, that’s a significant amount. Is this ‘fair and equitable’ amid a climate crisis?
This decision will undoubtedly disappoint those who hoped for transformative policy changes from Anwar’s government.
What does this tell us about our leaders’ economic planning? The government’s promises of a better future seem empty when grappling with an electricity bill you can barely afford.
Meanwhile, Perikatan Nasional (PN) has been advocating for the rights of ordinary Malaysians, highlighting its understanding of the public’s struggles. Can the Pakatan-Harapan-Barisan Nasional (PH-BN) administration say the same?
Anwar’s recent policy announcement should serve as a wake-up call. A government’s role is to alleviate its people’s problems, not exacerbate them. Is this strategy aligned with that responsibility?
Malaysians deserve better. We deserve a government that truly represents us, one that understands the value of every ringgit we earn. It’s time to advocate for a government that is both responsive and responsible, especially with the future of our nation at stake.
And we can’t ignore the more significant issue: the climate crisis. Instead of using it as a justification to burden us further, our government should take courageous, innovative measures to combat it.
Does removing subsidies reflect a commitment to decreasing energy consumption and promoting renewable sources – or it is just a quick solution to alleviate budgetary constraints?
The unity government needs to re-think its strategy. Please have a genuine discussion about balancing environmental concerns with the economic realities of everyday people. Potential solutions include promoting energy efficiency and investing in renewable energy.
The future of Malaysia hinges on the decisions we make today. It’s time our government listens to everyday Malaysians and makes choices that serve their interests.
We are not asking for miracles. We need a government that understands our struggles and stands up for us. One that follows through on its promises and truly listens and responds to us.
Because at the end of the day, we are all in this together. We all feel the heat, we all pay the bills, and we all hope for a better future. But for that to happen, we need leaders who are willing to roll up their sleeves and get to work. – May 17, 2023
Mahathir Mohd Rais is Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) Federal Territories’ information chief.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Pics credit: livein.com
