KUALA LUMPUR: The government should concentrate on helping the Malaysian economy weather the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak, instead of holding a snap general election.
“The council also feels that dissolving the Dewan Rakyat will not bring the change that is hoped for and would instead cause further political division.
“(The move will also render) the economic stimulus plan (ineffective).
“And we need more time, as the government just changed in May,” Malay Economic Action Council (MTEM) chief executive Ahmad Yazid Othman said in a statement here today.
Ahmad Yazid also warned that a government formed without the support of groups that fight for the Malay and Bumiputera community will not last long and be beset with perpetual turmoil.
“This can be seen with the declining Malay and Bumiputera support in the past few years.
“The perception, action and statements (by politicians in recent days) show that the Bumiputera community is not a priority in various matters,” said Ahmad Yazid.
He said some members of the former government called for a plug on race-based policies without looking at data.
“These statements are not realistic, as the Bumiputera are not only the poorest but also the lowest stakeholders in the economy.
“As such, whatever the government does – whether it’s snap polls or if they adhere to the process that is determined by Parliament – if the economic disparity in the country is dismissed, that government will not last.”
Ahmad Yazid said the council supports the pitch for a unity government to foster understanding and stabilise the economy.
He also said that MTEM supports a leadership that is credible, professional and technical, instead of politicians who play politics.
“We need a government that is not only competent (but is) attentive and cares about the Malay and Bumiputera community which is still backward.
“Whatever strategies, such as the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030, has to be given meaning with meaningful action by those who sincerely want to develop the economy. If not, it would be just another (political gimmick).”
Ahmad Yazid said that hence, a unity government should be supported by all MPs for political and economic stability.
“We also pray that the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, who is guided by the Conference of Rulers, makes the best decision and will be able to advise the Dewan Rakyat to determine the next government for the sake of race, religion and country and put an end to the political turmoil,” he added.