Speaking at a press conference at Sunway Nexis here today, Gerhana President Mohd Ridzuan Abdullah said many NGOs had complained that when enquiring about funds in February, they were told that the money had not come in yet, but by June the funds allocated for NGOs had run out.
“We are shocked that within the span of four months, that much money could have been spent while most NGOs have not even received any funds yet,” he said, adding that this had been the norm since 2015.
He questioned whether there was any foul play involved and said, “The prime minister needs to find out what is happening to the funds allocated and whether or not there are ministries trying to sabotage his efforts.”
He pointed out that most of the issues plaguing the people were being solved by NGOs, while political parties were busy fighting amongst themselves.
“There are so many political parties now who are fighting amongst themselves and this is affecting the economy.
“Meanwhile, NGOs are busy trying to solve the people’s problems and when we ask for funding, there is no money.”
He said Gerhana would collect signatures from other NGOs facing the same problem, after which a memorandum would be handed over to the prime minister.
“We will send this memorandum after Budget 2017 is announced as I’m sure there will be an allocation for NGOs.”
In Budget 2016, a total of RM160 million was allocated to NGOs.
Najib is scheduled to table Budget 2017 in Parliament on Oct 21.