Opposition leaders admit Budget benefits people

KUALA LUMPUR: In a departure from the norm, opposition leaders admit that the 2018 Budget presented by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on Friday, benefits the people, especially those in the lower and middle rungs.

PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali said the decision to abolish toll collection in Selangor, for example, benefited consumers and would be appreciated by the people.

“The Selangor people have earned their right after several years of filing the matter,” the Selangor Menteri Besar told reporters at the Parliament lobby here.

When tabling the 2018 Budget, Najib announced the abolition of the toll at Sungai Rasau, Klang and Batu Tiga in Selangor, effective Jan 1.

The Batu Tiga Toll Rate is RM1.10 for one-way while the Sungai Rasau Toll rate is RM1 one-way.

PAS vice-president Idris Ahmad said the abolition would have a good impact on the people’s cost of living.

“The toll is equal to the price of oil, up by one or two cents also will impact the economic chain and the people’s cost of living. This abolition can have a good impact on the people’s economy,” he said.

He also sees the special oneoff payment of RM1,500 to the village head and ‘Tok Batin’ as recognition of the community leaders.

Penang Chief Minister, Lim Guang Eng also welcomed the government’s announcement of upgrading the Penang International Airport.

“It is hoped the airport will be enlarged and not just a small-scale upgrade,” he said.

Asked whether the decision to abolish tolls on some highways in Selangor, Kedah and Johor was a good move, Lim, who is also DAP secretary-general, hoped the abolition of tolls would also be extended to other highways. - Bernama