Tabung Harapan collects almost RM200 million

PUTRAJAYA: Seven months after being set up to accept public contributions, the Tabung Harapan Malaysia (THM) fund will officially close on Dec 31.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng yesterday expressed gratitude and thanked Malaysians for their show of patriotism in wanting to ease the government’s financial burden.

Up to 9am yesterday, the total amount collected stood at RM199,140,218.80.

“The government appreciates every sen donated. The fund is the result of initiatives by individuals, organisations, non-governmental organisations and fixed deposit interests as administered by the Accountant-General’s Department,” Lim said.

Those who want to contribute to the fund are requested to use cheques to enable tax deductions. “The government will ensure that the money will be used to settle the national debt,” Lim said.

“Although the RM1 trillion debt surpasses the proceeds collected, the government appreciates the people’s solidarity in addressing the national debt.

“Hopefully, this spirit can be maintained.”

Lim thanked Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V for his contributions.

He said the National Audit Department would audit the fund’s account receipts and payments statements to ensure THM wasmanaged with integrity.

He said the ministry would appoint an external audit firm to audit THM’s accounts in line with Section 7 of the Audit Act 1957.