In conjunction with #Bajet2016, the general public was encouraged to participate in the annual budget survey hosted by Najib’s official website.
Here, the public was asked to share their general views based on 15 budget topics, including cost of living, healthcare, education and others.
The rest can then choose to like or dislike the suggestions posted.
MUST READ: People-centred programmes, focus of Budget 2016
Let’s look at the Top Six things Malaysians have spoken out for in the #Bajet2016 survey:
1. Abolish PTPTN interest
The National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) has always been a topic of debate among Malaysians.
Despite various initiatives, PTPTN’s collection rate is still low at 46%.
During the tabling of Budget 2015, the Government announced a rebate of 10% to borrowers who consistently make repayments for 12 months until December 31, 2015 and an additional 20% discount for borrowers who made lump sum repayments by March 31, 2015.
Ahead of #Bajet2016, the general public is calling for the Government to abolish PTPTN’s interest altogether, saying its is burdening borrowers.
Others suggested the Government offer several discounts tiers:
- Full payment: 30% discount
- Consistent payment: 15% discount
- CGPA of 3.00 – 3.49: 20% discount
- CGPA 3.50 – 3.66: 50% discount
2. Sustain MyBrain and MyPhD
MyBrain15 is a sponsorship programme initiated by the Government for postgraduate study at the Masters and PhD levels created under the 10th Malaysia Plan.
The objective of MyBrain15 programme is to reach 60,000 Malaysian PhD holders by year 2023, in conjunction with their agenda, “Malaysia as Centre for Knowledge Enhancement and Innovation”.
This programme aims to increase the number of local professional workforce that is highly knowledgeable and skilled, with innovation and creativity to help grow the local industries and economic sector.
MyMaster and MyPhD programmes were created under MyBrain15 and respectively target Master and PhD students in public universities (IPTA) and private education institutions (IPTS).
PhD Industry, MyMaster and MyPhD programmes are open to both public and private sectors employees who wish to further their study.
The public wants the Government to sustain both the MyBrain and MyPhD initiative as this would help many students to further their postgraduate studies – subsequently increasing Malaysian literacy level.
They hope the allowance will be increased to RM1,200 to RM1, 500 for Masters students and RM2,500 to RM2,800 for PhD students.
Students are currently burdened financially as the cost of various items, such as books, educational website subscription, food, and lodging, has increased.
3. Increase GST-exempted items & reduce GST rate
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) was an integral part of Budget 2014 and 2015, and was also widely debated by the public.
Its implementation took place on April 1, 2015 with GST charged at 6%.
GST was implemented primarily to replace the sales tax (10%) and service tax (6%), in an effort to generate additional revenue to offset the Government’s budget deficit.
The GST tax structure was divided as:
Ever since its implementation in April, the general public has been complaining relentlessly about the rising of cost of goods and services.
Currently, fresh foods are not charged GST but processed foods are. Therefore, the public is suggesting that processed foods such as sardine, Maggi, milk powder and chocolates be GST-free as well.
Most processed foods are part of our basic necessities and widely used by the middle-income families.
Having premier fresh food like lobsters GST-free will not benefit the larger group of low to middle-income earners, whom are hit the hardest by GST.
Other ways consumers who are affected by the implementation of GST is to have the right credit card that will reward them for the expenses. It’s important to find a card that fits their spending habit.
Also, with the rising cost of healthcare, GST exemption should include all medications, and not only the 4,600 selective medicine that are currently exempted.
The general public is also hoping to see GST rate reduced to 3% from the current 6%.
Malaysians generally opined that GST should have been implemented at a lower rate first, and then gradually increase in stages, before moving to the current 6%, which impacts the cost of living significantly.
4. Discontinue BR1M
Generally, the public would like to see the discontinuation of Bantuan Rakyat 1 Malaysia (BR1M) as it is seen as not being effective in supporting the low-income group in dealing with the rising cost of living.
Under Budget 2015, BR1M was distributed in three stages based on the following:
In 2014, 7.9 million individuals received BR1M, which saw RM4.6 billion dispensed. Most of those who responded to the survey believe funds would be better channeled towards controlling fuel prices.
MUST READ: BR1M is an economic measure, not a bribe, says Najib
5. Complete DASH construction
The Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway (DASH) is a 20.1 km, 3-lane, dual carriageway expressway that will commence at the Puncak Perdana U10 Shah Alam intersection and serve as a link for Puncak Perdana, Alam Suria, Denai Alam, Kampung Melayu Subang, Jalan Sungai Buloh, RRIM, Kota Damansara, Damansara Perdana and Mutiara Damansara. The expressway will end at the Penchala interchange, linking road users to LDP and SPRINT highways. The proposed expressway is expected to support rapid developments along the alignment covering U10 Shah Alam, Subang, Kota Damansara and Damansara areas.
The areas mentioned are expected to see an increase in population by 300,000 which will cause further congestion to the existing routes. DASH will act as a solution to this problem. Also, as Subang Airport serves as the main low-cost carrier terminal, DASH will become an alternative and easier route to the airport.
With the completion of DASH, the general public hope to enjoy an easy traffic comparatively. They will be able to save on travelling expenses and time, and channel that towards the family. Also, not having delays in journey time will increase productivity and better access between these routes will help economic development.
6. Make houses more affordable
It is sad to know that even with a salary or RM15,000 a month, some households still can’t afford their first property. Properties in the city have really sky-rocketed in recent years, leaving many still stuck in their rented homes.
Others are forced to opt for cheaper properties on the outskirts, which may not be convenient for work and school.
For Budget 2016, the general public is hoping to see more initiatives to reduce the prices of houses. And some suggestions in line with that were:
The Government should give out a subsidy or price discount to all first home-buyers based on salary and type of house desired, such as 15% discount plus free legal fees.
Increase age limit for first home loan
The Government should increase the age limit for first home loan, from 35 to 45 years of age.
Prioritise Malaysian home buyers
Increase house prices by 30% for investors buying their second property onwards and foreigners, to better control the housing market.
With the increased cost of living due to GST, the weakening Ringgit and the political instability in the country, Malaysians are concerned about the upcoming Budget 2016, and what it will unveils.
*Based on votes updated as of 28 September 2015 on www.najibrazak.com/bajet2016
This article is contributed by iMoney.my, Malaysia's leading financial comparison website. To compare and apply for the best financial products, such as credit card, home loans and personal loans, visit www.iMoney.my
