PUTRAJAYA should stagger goods and services tax refund payments over two years so as to provide more aid to rural folk, said Anwar Ibrahim.

“The process for GST refunds will take time. So, why not stagger it over two years, instead of one?” said the Port Dickson MP during the Budget 2019 debate today.

He urged the government not to cut everything, although the problem of leakages is real.

“We must ensure that leakages are plugged, and in this regard, I support the Finance Ministry’s efforts.”

The PKR president-elect also proposed that the government reconsider raising the allocation for smallholders, rubber tappers and fishermen.

Anwar questioned whether peer-to-peer financing would cause more property speculation, leading to another subprime crisis.

“I understand the need to control housing prices and raise income. But there are no shortcuts, as those who can’t afford to own a house would be burdened.”

He defended the government’s plan to collect an additional RM30 billion from Petronas.

“At this moment, Petronas can afford it. The country’s economy is in crisis, and the government has to prioritise the economy.

“As long as Petronas’ income is not affected by this one-off payment, it’s not going to be a long-term problem for them.” – November 13, 2018.