How should elected representatives request federal funds from the government?

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Elected Representatives Should Politely Request Federal Funds

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has advised elected representatives, particularly those within his unity government, to adopt a more courteous approach when seeking federal funds. He expressed his dissatisfaction with instances where representatives questioned his statements and intentions regarding the allocation of federal financial resources to Sabah, emphasizing that such requests should be made respectfully, akin to how friends interact. Anwar highlighted that substantial federal funding, amounting to RM16 billion in development expenditure for Sabah, has already been disbursed, comprising RM6.6 billion in development expenditure, RM7.9 billion in operational funds from federal agencies, and RM1.5 billion from other state expenditures, including the constitutional special grant.
The Importance of Respectful Dialogue

Anwar Ibrahim underscored the necessity for elected representatives to demonstrate good manners and a cooperative spirit, especially when engaging with colleagues within the same government. He stated that questioning his announcements and intentions, particularly concerning federal funds for Sabah, was unacceptable from those who are considered allies. The Prime Minister indicated that while he understood protests from opposition parties, criticism from within the government was perplexing and detrimental to collaborative governance, suggesting that such actions were akin to attacking friends and implying dishonesty.
Breakdown of Allocated Federal Funds to Sabah

The Prime Minister provided a detailed breakdown of the RM16 billion in federal funds allocated to Sabah. This figure includes RM6.6 billion designated for development expenditure, RM7.9 billion allocated for operational costs by federal agencies, and an additional RM1.5 billion from other state expenditures. Notably, this latter amount encompasses funds from the constitutional special grant, illustrating a multi-faceted approach to financial assistance for the state. Anwar also referenced the ongoing negotiations concerning the state's rights and entitlements under the Federal Constitution.
Criticism of "Childish Politics" and Misinformation

Anwar Ibrahim specifically criticised what he termed "childish politics" and the questioning of his intentions by some elected representatives. He suggested that such behaviour implied a lack of understanding or deliberate misrepresentation of the facts concerning federal allocations. The Prime Minister pointed out that his administration had fulfilled its obligations and made significant contributions to Sabah, exceeding allocations from previous years, and urged for an appreciation of these efforts rather than unfounded accusations. He also alluded to the fact that federal ministers from Sabah, such as Datuk Armizan Ali and Datuk Ewon Benedick, frequently requested additional funds, which he found acceptable as long as their requests were politely presented.

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How should elected representatives request federal funds from the government?

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