MUAR MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman has raised concerns in the Dewan Rakyat about the government’s alleged intention to halt the construction of multipurpose halls at four schools in his constituency. This move is perceived by some as a response to Syed Saddiq’s recent withdrawal from the government coalition.
During his debate speech, Syed Saddiq argued that it would be unjust to penalise students and teachers due to political disagreements. He emphasised that the approved construction projects were intended to benefit the broader community and should not be tied to his political affiliation.
“In Muar, (the government) has approved the construction of four new halls. These infrastructures do not belong to Syed Saddiq, but to the teachers, the schools and their parent-teacher associations who will inherit them from one generation to another.
“But I heard because I chose to be in the opposition, there are rumours that they want to stop the construction of these facilities despite the projects having been approved many months ago.
“I want to ask the Madani government today if they want to punish the teachers, the youths from financially challenged families who really need these basic infrastructures? This is not fair to them,” he said when debating the 12th Malaysia Plan mid-term review.
Syed Saddiq, who currently heads MUDA, a party that was formerly part of the unity government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, chose to withdraw his support from the government earlier this week.
However, he reiterated that MUDA would act as a third force in Parliament rather than aligning itself with the Perikatan Nasional opposition bloc.
In his speech, Syed Saddiq also emphasised the importance of fairness in allocating funds to MPs, regardless of their political affiliation. He urged the government to rectify any systemic issues before they became more entrenched.
“Repair the system before it is too late. Remember, there are ups and downs in politics. Today we are in the opposition, tomorrow we might be in government.
“Would you like it if you become on the receiving end of this practice? Listen, remember and look at yourself in the mirror.” – Sept 14, 2023
Main photo credit: Bernama
