KUCHING: Michael Kong, Special Assistant to the Member of Parliament for Stampin, has expressed concern following the recent approval of an additional RM100 million for the rental of air services under the Department of the Premier of Sarawak.
“In light of this significant allocation, there are reasonable concerns about whether such expenditure reflects sound fiscal priorities and prudent financial management,” Kong said.
He noted that the amount stands out, especially when compared to the federal government’s travel expenditure. “To offer some perspective, the Federal Cabinet reportedly spent RM44 million on overseas engagements in 2024. Despite the lower figure, they managed to attract RM378.5 billion in investments and generated over 207,000 jobs for Malaysians.”
Kong also stressed that the people of Sarawak continue to face real and pressing needs, including improved healthcare services, better infrastructure, rural connectivity, and digital access.
“At a time when many Sarawakians are still waiting for basic services and infrastructure upgrades, this level of spending on air travel warrants closer scrutiny. These funds could have gone a long way in enhancing education, healthcare, and economic support for small businesses across the state,” he said.
He called on the Sarawak Government to provide greater transparency regarding overseas travel expenditure involving ministers, deputy ministers, and their entourages.
“The public deserves to understand how these trips translate into benefits for Sarawak. We are not questioning the need for representation abroad, but we do hope for clearer accountability on the costs and outcomes of such efforts,” Kong concluded.
By Connie Chieng