KUALA LUMPUR: Umno’s strategic communications unit said today it disagrees with the government’s move to shut down four government-linked agencies.
In a statement today, the unit claimed that the disbandment of the four agencies was not sensible, adding that the decision was akin to punishing the people.
Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad yesterday announced that the government would disband 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 at all. The decision made during the first cabinet meeting on May 23 is a form of punishment against the people,” the unit said.
It added that the disbandment JKKKP was especially disappointing as it was an institution that helped resolve local issues faced by the people.
The unit 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 and 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 all the staff at the agencies but at the same time, the plan to abolish tolls will involve steep compensations, according to international rating agency Moody’s.
“JKKKP, which has existed since Dr Mahathir’s administration in the 1980s, has contributed a lot to the community.
“It’s the same thing with JASA. Why is Dr Mahathir realising the agencies’ ‘mistakes and weaknesses’ only now,” it asked.
The unit said it was disappointed with the government’s move to shut down the agencies so close to Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
“We feel that the staff should be absorbed into other departments and agencies in the government.
“They should not be left without a source of income. Remember, we are serving the people. The people have chosen Pakatan Harapan to be their voice.
“If this is how you repay them, then it’s not wrong to say that the current government seeks to exact vengeance and not to serve as a protector.
“The PH government should use the power it has for the people’s interests, and not to show it off by making irrational decisions. ”