Just 10%?

Ok, I may be late in saying this. But before that, let's get the picture. Due to recent petrol hike from RM1.92/litre to RM2.70/litre (40.7% jump), the government announced some cut-cutting measures.

TheStar reported that the government is putting up a plan to cut-cost that will save RM2billion. Part of this plan was to slash 10% of the monthly entertainment allowances which enjoyed by all ministers. In the report, it says that the Prime Minister currently enjoys a monthly entertainment allowance of RM18,865 while his deputy gets RM15,015. Other ministers and deputy ministers are given RM12,320 and RM6,000, respectively.

To begin with, I think there are more than half of Malaysian are earning below RM6k in their monthly income. A quick look at the number of ministers (source: mycen), there are about 31 ministers and 37 deputy ministers. Now let's adds up RM18,865 + RM15,015 + (31 * RM12,320) + (37 * RM6,000) = RM637,800 monthly entertainment expenses. 10% of it would be RM63,780. Multiply that amount to 12months, you'll get RM765,360. This sum only represents 0.039% of RM2b. I don't really know if it makes a difference and how RM2b was arrived at... or maybe I was just plain wrong with my calculations.

On the other hand, these 70 ministers are eligible to claim RM574,020 as entertainment allowances. Multiply that to 12months, the sum will arrived at RM6,888,240. That is close to RM7million.

So, now we know 10% is just a symbolic cost-cutting measure. It is out of proportion to reduce 10% of entertainment allowances while fuel prices surge 41%. Besides these entertainment allowances, I am sure these 70 daylight penyamun were given petrol or vehicle allowances as well. Who's still the winner at end of the day? Yes, it is those buggers, who asked you to change your lifestyle so that they can go for their holidays paid by you and I.

VRF by our own elected representatives. Clear as the sky.