Say NO to wasting money on new Parliament building

When the news came out about a new Parliament building in Putrajaya which will cost RM800 million, there were lots of emails flying here and there opposing the move.

All of us know that our country is having some financial problem.
Government departments were told to reduce the budget, "berhemah" and so on. In yesteryears, there were so many retreats, workshops, seminars and meetings held at resorts and hotels. I know there has been a decline of all these...because government has slashed the budget.

The economy has been very soft since 4th quarter 2008. The construction sector does not seem to have adequate projects.

It is time not to waste money.

I am very happy that MCA had decided to ask the Government to rethink and cancel this project. RM800 million is wasteful for the current economic slowdown.

Why cut fuel subsidies (which will burden the Rakyat) and yet spend lavishly (RM800 million) for a luxurious Parliament buidling?
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Press Statement by MCA President Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek on the proposed RM800 mil Putrajaya Parliament building

MCA President: No need for new RM800 mil Parliament-funds could be better utilized for rakyat

The Parliament House built in 1962 was one of the earliest landmarks in the country and is an institution by itself.

It is a heritage building which ought to be preserved not only as a heritage building but also be proudly occupied by Parliamentarians.

There is no need for a Parliament building costing RM800mil in Putrajaya which is a sheer waste of public funds which could be better utilized for projects benefiting the rakyat.

This is especially so when the Government is urging Malaysians to reduce expenditure to have a balanced budget.

The Government should reconsider its decision on the new building which should be considered as an optional project.

The need for Parliament to be relocated to Putrajaya is essentially to enable Cabinet members and civil servants to have easier access.

In comparison, the Westminster in the United Kingdom where the British Parliament House is located, is cramp but functional and fully utilized by British MPs. Moreover our existing Parliament House is much more comfortable, especially after its renovations.

Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek
MCA President

Source: http://www.mca.org.my/English/Commentaries/Pages/MCAPresidentNoneedfornewRM800milParliamentfundscouldbebetterutilizedforrakyat.aspx