Disbandment of 4 govt agencies ‘not sensible’

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno’s Strategic Communications Unit said yesterday that it disagrees with the government’s move to shut down four government-linked agencies.

It claimed that the disbandment of the agencies was not sensible, adding that the decision was akin to “punishing the people”.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced the disbandment of the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD), Special Affairs Department (Jasa), National Professors Council (NPC) and Federal Village Development and Security Committee (JKKKP).

“The decision is not sensible. It was made during the first cabinet meeting on May 23, and is a form of punishment against the people,” the unit said.

The disbandment of JKKKP, it said, was especially disappointing as it was an institution that helped resolve local issues faced by the people.

It said claims that the agencies were being used as political tools were untrue, adding that the agencies were meant to facilitate the government’s efforts to administer the nation.

“SPAD, for example, was formed to monitor the land public transport system. There is no overlap with the Road Transport Department.

“It may be true that the government can save about RM500 million a year by laying off staff at the agencies, but the plan to abolish tolls will involve steep compensations, according to international rating agency Moody’s.

“JKKKP, which existed since Dr Mahathir’s administration in the 1980s, has contributed a lot to the community. It is the same thing with Jasa. Why is Dr Mahathir realising the agencies’ ‘mistakes and weaknesses’ only now?”

It said it was disappointed with the government’s move to shut down the agencies so close to Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

“The staff should be absorbed into other government departments or agencies. They should not be left without a source of income. We are serving the people, and they have chosen Pakatan Harapan to be their voice.”