The four DAP state assemblypersons in Johor are not to use public funds for the upcoming Scandinavian trip in May and June, revealed opposition leader Dr Boo Cheng Hau.

"I have sent an official directive informing them that they are to use their own money if they want to participate in the sightseeing trip."

boo cheng hau He added if any of the party's assemblypersons decide to go, they would have to pay in cash and have a copy of the receipt as proof of payment.

"The other two PAS assemblypersons have decided not to go," disclosed Boo ( right ).

The trip by the Johor State Assembly will cover Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway for 11 or 12 days. It is expected to take place in two batches - one in May and the second in June.

Boo said that the trip would cost RM13,000 (twin-sharing room) or RM16,000 (single room) for each assemblyperson and it would cost the Johor State Treasury at least RM500,000 to RM700,000 if all 56 decided to go.

"Apparently all the state assemblypersons are entitled to the trip as a treat after working so hard. But I don't think that it is justifiable because we will be using the taxpayers money," he explained.

No need for all to go 

"Only in December 2009, the Johor menteri besar in his Budget speech said that Johor for 2010 will see a deficit budget of RM1.5 million and administration expenses is projected at RM785.65 million against an estimated reduced income of RM784.15 million.

"The state’s loan repayment to federal government for 2010 is RM30.78."

Boo however suggested that if it is really necessary, a smaller number of assemblypersons could go and that it should be a study trip, and not just for sightseeing purposes.

"We could send five or six people. There is no need to send the whole dewan."

Boo added that a study trip to local government or public administration on relevant issues would benefit them.