Don't spend on fancy boxes that cost more than dates - PM tells govt depts

Summary

• Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim wants all government agencies not to waste funds on the unnecessary during Ramadan-related programmes.

• He gives an example of aid distribution programmes in the past where fancy boxes were used to pack dates.

• Anwar stresses that the funds can be used for better purposes.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reminded government departments and agencies to be prudent when spending on Ramadan-related activities.

In his speech at the Prime Minister's Department monthly assembly this morning, Anwar said he could not help but notice previous practice where funds were splurged on unnecessary items such as fancy boxes during aid distribution programmes.

"Sometimes I could see that they would distribute dates that were packed in beautiful boxes. If you want to distribute dates, you should spend more on dates to distribute to more people.

"If the boxes cost more than the dates, that is a waste of funding. What are they (the recipients) going to do with the boxes?

"Please think about this. It is unnecessary to be luxurious because the money can be better spent on things that can bring more benefit (to the people)," he said during the gathering in Putrajaya.

Anwar advised the civil servants to appreciate the true spirit of Ramadan by being moderate, including when organising the breaking of fast and Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house events.

"This is just a reminder to everyone. (This usually happens) even more when it comes closer to Aidilfitri, like there is somewhat a competition (which agency) gives out better boxes," the premier added.

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