Govt still non-committal on law for equal constituency allocations

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia's government has not yet pledged to pass a law guaranteeing equal development allocations for all MPs, stating that the proposal requires thorough deliberation. In a written parliamentary response, Sabah and Sarawak affairs minister Mustapha Sakmud explained that the current approach prioritises development and public welfare, irrespective of constituency.

The distribution of funds for projects, public facilities, and programmes must consider each constituency's needs and priorities, as well as the government's financial situation, he added. This statement came in response to Khoo Poay Tiong (PH-Kota Melaka), who inquired about the government's readiness to enact a constituency development fund law.

The issue has re-emerged in recent months as DAP leaders pressured the government to honour Pakatan Harapan's election promise of equal allocations for all MPs. In August, government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil hinted that the Cabinet might discuss the legislation in the future, though no decision had been made. Meanwhile, Penang has commenced work on its own proposed legislation, with the state's chief minister, Chow Kon Yeow, instructing his legal adviser to draft an enactment on constituency development funds.

However, Chow clarified that more time is needed for stakeholder engagement and deliberations, meaning the proposal would not be introduced at the state assembly's upcoming November meeting.