THE acrimonious debate between Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli and former prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin in the Dewan Rakyat exemplifies the continued difficulty in balancing the demands of politics with the need to solve pressing economic concerns. Some people think Rafizi’s attitude during the question and answer session was too arrogant and diverted attention from the essential points. 

As a newbie minister, Rafizi must learn to remain calm and communicate effectively with all his peers. The predecessors’ efforts must be acknowledged, especially in these trying times.  

Dialogues between opposition and government representatives should be civil and effective if they are to address national concerns. It is possible to see Rafizi’s strident rejection of Muhyiddin’s suggestion for targeted incentives and his subsequent focus on the debt inherited from the latter’s leadership as an attempt to score political points rather than promote cooperation. 

Others have also said Rafizi’s emphasis on the debt incurred by the previous administration and his manner takes the focus away from helping powerless folks and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) prepare for a possible global economic downturn. Politicians need to set aside their differences and work together in a spirit of mutual respect to find solutions to the nation’s financial woes. 

Rafizi should not disregard Muhyiddin’s efforts, such as the Prihatin Rakyat Economic Stimulus Package, which helped those many impacted by the pandemic. Low-income households received cash transfers, workers received wage subsidies, and small businesses were given aid. Furthermore, the government offered financial facilities and extended loan moratoria to help firms and individuals survive the economic downturn.  

The current Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional coalition government should focus on helping the most vulnerable and small businesses recover from the pandemic. Healthcare, education, and environmental protection are all crucial to the long-term success of a nation and necessitate a more aggressive stance on the government’s part. 

The government, while working to step on its economic recovery, must also guarantee a fair distribution of development benefits among all citizens. Those already disadvantaged, such as those living in rural areas or those with physical impairments, may have even more trouble breaking through to the mainstream economy. 

With it, the government must have a multi-pronged long-term strategy to hasten economic growth recuperation post-pandemic, prioritising aiding marginalised communities and micro SMEs, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, and advocating for sustainable and inclusive growth. When all parties are heard and considered, the government may find common ground and work together to find solutions that benefit all Malaysians. – March 23, 2023.

* Mahathir Mohd Rais is Federal Territories Perikatan Nasional information chief.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.