Govt capable of funding various aid to people: Treasury Sec-Gen

BACHOK: The federal government is capable of funding the various forms of assistance announced to the people as it is financially stable and has sound economic growth.
Treasury Secretary-General Tan Sri Dr Mohd Irwan Serigar Abdullah (pix) said last year's economy expanded by 5.9% while this year, it was expected to grow between 5.5% and six percent.
"The proceeds from the Customs Department and Inland Revenue Board are expected to increase, supported by rising world oil prices pushing government revenue from oil income to increase," he told reporters after presenting contributions to 12 madrasahs at the Madrasah Mawaddah Kuin Pasir here today.
Mohd Irwan said the good financial and economic position would enable the government to spend mainly on the people's welfare.
"The current economic situation is very strong, when government revenue increases, we give back to the people to help them cope with the rising cost of living," he added.
In this regard, he said those who questioned the government's ability to finance aid to the people were only politically motivated and not genuinely concerned.
On the train fare for the East Coast Rail Link, he said the ticket prices had not been set but it would not burden the people. — Bernama