GUAN ENG BLAMES JHO LOW FOR PHʼS INABILITY TO FULFIL SOME PROMISES
Some promises not realised due to fiscal constraints, says minister
FINANCE Minister Lim Guan Eng has blamed alleged fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho over the government’s inability to fulfil a number of its promises.
That was the response given by Lim on the government’s difficulty in fulfilling its promises to waive or postpone loan repayment under the National Higher Education Corporation (PTPTN).
At the launch of Fund My Home Programme, which was developed by EdgeProp Sdn Bhd, Lim said the government had been criticised over the matter. “I accept the criticisms.
“It is difficult to fulfil that particular commitment due to the country’s current fiscal position.
“What can the government do? If Jho Low didn’t take away RM50 billion, of course we can do it (fulfil promises),” Lim said in reference to allegations against Low over the 1Malaysia Development Bhd scandal.
Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik had reportedly said PTPTN recipients who earned less than RM4,000 monthly would be allowed to postpone repayment.
However, Lim, during the tabling of the 2019 Budget, said salary deductions between two and 15 per cent would be imposed on PTPTN recipients who earn above RM1,000.
Lim said the salary deduction was an alternative solution to ensure PTPTN’s sustainability.
Lim said his ministry would hold talks with the National House Buyers Association on the mechanism concerning the peerto-peer housing purchase, which was expected to take place in the first quarter of next year.
He said the mechanism would be looked into by Bank Negara Malaysia and the Securities Commission.
“There are things being considered. We will make an announcement in the near future to resolve problems.”