A MEMBER of the special advisory body to the finance minister, Prof Ulung Rajah Rasiah said his name has been used by parties to harm the image of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Speaking on the “SELANGORfm 100.9” Facebook page today, he said the actions of the parties involved were part of an effort to distort his presentation on the recent Budget 2024 and affected the prime minister’s image.

“Recently my name was used to criticise the prime minister. I would like to emphasise that I absolutely do not accept such an interpretation.

“I see that as part of an effort to distort my (budget) presentation in order to harm the prime minister’s image. I completely reject such an irresponsible view,” said Rajah who is also professor of economics at the University of Malaya in the social media account.

The prime minister tabled Budget 2024 at the Dewan Rakyat last Friday.

Recently, several news portals had allegedly quoted Rajah’s commends on several items in Budget 2024.

The special advisory body to the finance minister was headed by Petronas advisor Mohd Hassan Marican.

Besides Rajah, other members of the special advisory body include FVSB Sdn Bhd executive chairman Ahmad Fuad Md Ali, Sunway University Economics Professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng and Sarawak Energy Bhd chairman Amar Abdul Hamed Sepawi.

Anwar announced the establishment and membership of the special advisory body on February 7.

When announcing the establishment of the special advisory body, Anwar said the advisory group consisted of professionals and economic experts responsible for helping to advise him as finance minister. – Bernama, October 16, 2023.