SUNGAI SIPUT: The 1Malaysia People’s Aid (BR1M) programme was introduced to help the people and should never be described as "an insult to the poor", said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
“We want to help the poor. Rich people like Mokhzani (Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir), he is already rich, he has 23 sports cars and a private jet.
“BN government is the one who can help you. The aid we give, it should not be described as an insult to the poor.
“We help the poor so they can be successful, at least they are not suffering and have something to cook. When 'Hari Raya' arrives, RM800 will be provided and this is the time where your wife and children can get their 'baju raya' and others,” he said.
Najib said this in his speech at the ‘Hebatkan Negaraku’ gathering at Sungai Siput Convention Centre here today.
Also present were Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, Sungai Siput parliament seat candidate Datuk Seri S.K. Devamany and Lintang state seat candidate Datuk Mohd Zolkafly Harun.
It was reported that Mokhzani, the son of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, had said that receiving BR1M handout was nothing to shout about.
Najib also explained that BR1M and other assistance were offered to the people because the country's economy was doing well.
“When we have more revenue, we give back to the people. But some quarters are talking bad about GST (Goods and Services Tax) but we should realise that 600 items are excluded from the tax.
“Mackerel is excluded from GST, rice... no GST, formula milk, medicines, also no GSTs. Don’t blame the GST. There are 164 countries currently implementing GST and we are among the country that offers the lowest rate.” he added.
Reported by Shamsul Kamal Amarudin, Maiamalina Mohamed Amin and Zahratulhayat Mat Arif