Start implementing Budget 2024 projects now, Anwar tells Cabinet

CYBERJAYA: All projects announced in Budget 2024 should be implemented immediately instead of waiting for the first quarter of the year to end, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister said allocations had been disbursed to all ministries and there was no reason why projects should be delayed.

The Prime Minister said this was one of the main focuses of the Cabinet members’ retreat on Thursday (Jan 18).

“Start now. We have achieved a record achievement in the assessment of projects implemented in 2023. For 2024, we want these to be implemented fast, which means they (ministries) can proceed without having to wait for the first quarter (to end).

“Funds have been disbursed. I believe for the first time in the Treasury’s history, funds were disbursed to various ministries in January,” he said during a press conference held at the Cyberview Resort & Spa here.

The retreat will be held over two days on Jan 17 and 18, attended by Anwar, 31 ministers and other public officials.

Anwar explained that the format of the retreat was slightly different where Cabinet members garnered input not only from each other but also from both local and international experts.

Among the topics discussed were on the economy, education, public service, digital transformation, renewable energy and artificial intelligence, he said.

“We are open to all suggestions and criticism because we accept that there is always room for improvement.

When asked about the appointment of a new Employees Provident Fund (EPF) chief executive officer, Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said this would be announced soon.

“We will expedite it and there are a few names being considered.

“There is a process where the person must be screened by the MACC, LHDN, Bank Negara and police, and this process may take a few weeks.”

On the new water tariffs, Anwar said the decision to increase it was made following a meeting with state mentris besar and chief ministers.

“All states asked us to increase it. There are states that haven’t increased (their tariff) for more than 40 years. After they proposed it, the federal government agreed with it,” he said.