Malaysia’s crucial Budget 2021 vote likely to be delayed

• The vote on Malaysia’s budget in Parliament, scheduled for 26 Nov 20 that could decide the fate of the Muhyiddin Yassin administration is set to be delayed to next week on 1 Dec 20.
• Official sources told The Straits Times that Parliament is unable to take a decision on the supply Bill, Malaysia’s largest ever, as about half the ministries had yet to respond to issues raised during debate in the Lower House.
• The process is running behind schedule largely due to the fact that proceedings are cut short, ending by 2pm every day instead of in the evening to reduce the risk of Covid-19 spreading.
• “There are 16 ministries that have not wrapped up. We have to give the necessary time,” said a government official who declined to be named, as the matter had yet to be formally made known to MPs.
• Lawmakers from both sides of the floor have threatened not to support the supply Bill unless a number of amendments are made, such as an extended loan moratorium, increased withdrawals from statutory retirement savings and larger cash handouts.
• This is despite the fact that the King, Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah, has repeatedly called on politicians to ensure its passage so that the battle against Covid-19 and the economic fallout from the pandemic will be dealt with.

External Link : https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysias-crucial-budget-2021-vote-likely-to-be-delayed