RM7m collected through Tabung Harapan on day one (Updated)

PETALING JAYA: More than RM7 million has been collected in less than 24 hours, after the government launched the Tabung Harapan Malaysia, according to Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng.
"The Finance Ministry was humbled by the magnanimity of Malaysians who have been channelling non-stop funds to Tabung Harapan, aimed to assist the Federal Government to repay the nation's staggering debt sum," he said in a statement today.
"Malaysians have taken their patriotism to a greater height, willing to part with their allowances and spare cash to help rebuild this nation we all love."
He thanked Malaysians, especially those like young activist and law graduate Shazarina Bakti, who have taken their role in nation building seriously. He said they have not shown any signs of slowing down after the May 9 victory at the ballot boxes.
Lim said Shazarina had initiated a fundraising page to crowdfund to reduce the nation's debt one week before Tabung Harapan Malaysia was officially launched. It had raised RM13,476.57 and Lim applauded her effort in rallying Malaysians from all walks of life to contribute to the cause.
He said it is this spirit of hope and unity which will also fuel the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government, in moving forward to fulfill all of its manifesto pledges for the people.
"As this involves funds donated by the rakyat, the government is committed to being transparent with every sen received. Therefore, the amount collected will be updated daily on the Finance Ministry's website and on its social media platforms," Lim said.
He added that for tax deduction purposes, Malaysians who donated to this fund are advised to keep their receipt of their transaction as stated under Subsection 44(6) Income Tax Act 1967.
Meanwhile, Malindo Air CEO Chandran Rama Murthy said from now until Aug 31, the airline would contribute RM1 from every sale of domestic flight tickets to the Tabung Harapan Malaysia fund.
“In the spirit of patriotism, Malindo Air will be contributing RM1 from each of its Malaysia-based ticket sales towards the Tabung Harapan Malaysia fund.
“The three-month long campaign will kick start from tomorrow until Aug 31 to support the new government’s initiative in creating a better future for us all,” he said in a Facebook post and Twitter today.