Opposition leader criticises GLC involvement in non-core projects in Budget 2027

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 12 — Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin has criticized the involvement of government-linked corporations (GLCs) in non-core projects during the debate on Budget 2027. He highlighted a project to build a hostel for students, which he claimed would be funded by the Retirement Fund Incorporated (KWAP). Hamzah argued that this practice extended to other GLCs like Petronas and Tenaga Nasional Bhd, raising questions about their fundamental purposes and financial returns.

He expressed his bewilderment at the allocation of funds to GLCs for projects outside their core mandates, stating, "I am truly bewildered at times." During Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's presentation of a RM459 billion federal spending plan for 2027, Hamzah criticized the inclusion of RM50 billion from government-linked investment companies, state enterprises, and statutory bodies, emphasizing that GLCs should stick to their designated areas to maintain focus.