The government plans to review the allowance and facilities of members of parliaments, said Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

The announcement by the prime minister when tabling the 2012 Budget in Dewan Rakyat today received a thunderous applause from MPs.

Najib said this was because the government was aware that the responsibility, duties and burden of the MPs, was increasing from day to day other than having to foster a new political culture in line with the political transformation programme which was announced recently.

"The review and conditions must be accepted by MPs from both sides - ruling party and the opposition - including independents.

"After it is agreed, the new allowance will come into force by January 1 next year," he said with a smile.

One-off payment of RM3,000

The government will provide a one-off payment of RM3,000 to ex-servicemen as well as widows and widowers totalling almost 62,000 people.

Najib said the special payment would also be extended to over 48,000 ex-members of special constable and auxiliary police who served in protecting the country during the emergency era.

They comprise home guards, special constables, extra police constables, auxiliary police, women auxiliary police, women special constables and jungle scouts, he said.

He said the government would not let the country's heroes to be left out.

The government will also allocate RM500 million under the Army Care programme to upgrade army camps and quarters nationwide.

"Comfortable living quarters and conducive camp environment motivate positive work performance among members of the armed forces," he said.

To ease the difficulties faced by 175,000 army personnel - who retired with less than 21 years of service and not eligible for pension - the government would introduce a special programme to enable them to venture into businesses as well as assist those who are qualified to obtain jobs in the public and private sectors.

"A total of RM50 million will be provided for the implementation of this programme," he said.

Over RM600 million for police

The prime minister said the government would also provide special allocation of RM200 million to enhance integrity of the police force.

"We need a well-trained police force with modern technology, state-of-the-art equipment as well as sophisticated and scientific investigation and evidence gathering capability," he said.

In addition, RM442 million will be allocated in 2012 for the development expenditure of the police force, projects of which include police housing quarters, purchase of communication and technical equipment as well as upgrading of headquarters, stations and training centres.

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