By Danial Dzulkifly
SHAH ALAM, Aug 23 — Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari has emphasised the importance of addressing pressing economic issues, including income inequality and the escalating cost of living.
He said this is vital, not only to enhance the living standards of Selangor residents but also to thwart opportunists from manipulating public sentiments for political leverage.
In this regard, Amirudin outlined his administration's commitment to improving the socioeconomic status of the state’s residents, including via the implementation of five key pledges within 100 days, as detailed in the state’s Unity Government manifesto ahead of the recently-concluded 15th Selangor State Election.
“We must recognise the people of Selangor are clamouring for a fair and equitable economy, particularly those who are underpaid and find themselves in jobs that do not align with their economic needs.
“This palpable anxiety is not merely perception, but a genuine challenge we must understand and address. Failure to do so may create a vacuum which opportunists can exploit.
“In fact, these characters have attempted to sow discord among the Selangor community in recent weeks,” he said in his speech before announcing the state’s executive council lineup at the State Secretariat Building, earlier today.
Although he did not mention any names, the Menteri Besar was ostensibly referring to members of Perikatan Nasional, who played up racial and religious rhetoric ahead of the state polls on August 12.
Amirudin also reiterated his administration’s commitment to a people-centric government and making Selangor not only the highest contributor to Malaysia’s economy but also resilient in the face of climate change and economic challenges.
“I am committed to making Selangor the most successful state, not only in Malaysia but in this region. Successful not just in terms of the economy, but with high-paying job opportunities.
“Successful not just in terms of the highest gross domestic product contribution, but in finding solutions to climate change, particularly floods. Successful not only by opening new economic territories but also in making this administration centred around its people,’’ he said.
Meanwhile, Amirudin said the five manifesto pledges that will be implemented within 100 days of the new administration are:
- Providing RM1,000 to 5,000 working women to reduce childcare costs;
- Implementing assessment tax exemption for village houses and low-cost homes;
- Providing 1,000 students with RM200 worth of Kita Selangor book vouchers;
- Increasing the allowance for imams, bilals, siaks, and nazirs; and
- Granting RM1,000 in Kita Selangor agricultural and fisheries incentive for 500 farmers, paddy growers, and fishermen.
