Transport Minister Anthony Loke says spending control measures are a precaution against economic risks from the West Asia conflict, with Aidilfitri open houses cancelled to prioritise urgent needs.

PUTRAJAYA: The government’s decision to implement cost-saving measures and control discretionary spending is a preparatory step to mitigate potential economic risks arising from global uncertainty.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that the move, agreed upon by the Cabinet, aims to ensure existing funds are available for more urgent and unforeseen needs that may emerge.

He explained that this includes the cancellation of official Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house celebrations this year to allow funds to be saved and reallocated.

Loke emphasised, however, that government spending for critical development projects and socioeconomic assistance to the people will continue as planned without any cuts.

“Government spending is not being cut, but optimised and prioritised for matters that have a positive impact on the people and safeguard their well-being,” he said at the Transport Ministry’s monthly assembly here.

He suggested that civil servants could still observe the festive spirit by organising small departmental-level gatherings among colleagues instead of large official events.

The Ministry of Transport is closely monitoring the West Asia conflict due to the region’s critical role as a global trade and energy artery, according to the minister.

Loke warned that any conflict there has a direct chain effect on the global economy and transport systems, which Malaysia must anticipate.

He highlighted the need to prepare for possible disruptions in the delivery of imported goods as a result of the ongoing situation.

The directive to cancel open houses was initially announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, applying to all ministries, agencies and government-linked companies.

Anwar said the decision was meant to send a clear message about the government’s commitment to a more prudent and moderate approach to spending.

 The Sun Malaysia