Speaking at a press conference after an event in Putrajaya today, Subramaniam, who is also MIC president, said cost-cutting measures were necessary due to the current economic situation that had befallen the country.

He explained that the ministry would make up for the reduced budget by improving efficiency, reducing wastage and cutting down on less urgent activities such as overseas trips and training that could be postponed.

“The Health Ministry understands the challenges of the economy and we will give our full support to Prime Minister Najib Razak and the Finance Ministry.

“Of course, as a ministry in charge of health, there is only a certain amount we can cut down on,” he said, adding that every sector under the ministry was advised to reduce spending where possible.

On January 8, Najib announced that Budget 2016 would be adjusted to suit the current economic climate. It will be announced on January 28.

In October last year, Najib announced Malaysia’s 2016 budget with an allocation of RM267.2 billion.