NAJIB Razak has added his criticism to the lot lumped on the recent RM85.5 million allocation announced for the revival of the Special Affairs Department (Jasa), a unit used by the Barisan Nasional government for its propaganda.

The BN Backbenchers Club (BNBBC) chairman said the money should instead go towards other expenditure more beneficial for the public.

“In this time of crisis, where funds are needed to save the people, a four-fold increase for Jasa compared with that given during BN’s time is hard to accept by many, and courts people’s anger.

“I can accept it if the funds are spent on masks or hand sanitisers for the people (or) given to parents to replace the Supplemental Food Plan (RMT) for children denied breakfast, because schools are closed until early next year.

“But I cannot accept the suggestion of RM85.5 million for Jasa,” Najib told the house while debating Budget 2021 in Parliament today.

Jasa was used by the BN government to disseminate propaganda in schools, universities and government agencies.

The unit earned notoriety for its work in painting DAP as a racist and chauvinist party.

In the run-up to the last general election in 2018, Jasa organised talks nationwide to “correct misconceptions” on the 1Malaysia Development Bhd scandal, in which the former prime minister is embroiled.

When Pakatan Harapan came into federal power that year, the coalition dismantled the unit. 

Previously, Jasa never received an annual allocation of more than RM23 million. – November 10, 2020.