The state government has projected a deficit of RM75.5 million, with expenditure of RM1.06 billion against revenue estimated at RM734.7 million.
Speaking to reporters later, Ahmad Bashah described the budget as realistic and achievable and not a “pie in the sky”. The budget is his first since becoming menteri besar earlier this year.
His confidence was based on efficient and effective revenue generation and collection as well as prudent spending.
He said he had reduced the budget deficit by 4.63 per cent from last year’s estimate of 14.9 per cent, by stressing revenue collection and deferring several programmes that entailed very high costs.
The budget allocates RM810.1 million on operating expenditure and RM256.4 million for development.
The budget is based on raising efficiency and prudence in revenue spending, adding value and exploring the potential of new economy, boosting the people’s economy and ensuring the well-being of its multiracial community through the right measures.