In a statement today he reminded Lim about a budget allocation for toll subsidy, and urged Lim to find out from ex-premier Mahathir Mohamad about the “sordid” history of the North-South Highway.
On Friday, Lim had suggested that the government’s decision to stop toll increases on four highways was a result of public pressure. Lim had claimed that compensation to the toll companies was not indicated in the 2017 Budget.
“If Lim had not left early and if the opposition had not created a ruckus and walked-out midway to hold up placards during the Budget speech, they would have noticed point 115 which stated that RM10 billion was allocated to help ease the cost of living for Malaysians where subsidy for toll charges was clearly stated,” Fadillah said.
Fadillah also questioned Lim’s suggestion that members of the Employees Provident Fund would prefer a toll-free North-South Highway than get a “miserable” 10 per cent return on the EPF’s 49 per cent stake in highway operator Plus.
He said he was at a loss as to why Lim thought he was speaking on behalf of all 14.55 million EPF holders. “I would think that Lim is being selfish when he suggested that EPF holders in Sabah, Sarawak and the east coast of peninsular Malaysia who do not use the North-South Highway should sacrifice themselves.”
He said Lim should start a petition for all EPF members to back his claim that they would be willing to give up their savings and future dividends. “I suggest that Lim start doing his petition in Sabah and Sarawak first.”
Fadillah also rebuked Lim for suggesting that the minister “forgot” the “sordid” history of the North-South Highway.
He pointed out that the toll concessions for the highway were structured during the time of Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who is now with the opposition. “If Lim wants to know more, I suggest that he check with this past prime minister.”