He said the country’s deficit had been consistent every year under his administration, but has been on the increase since the change of government.

“I predict Budget 2020 will not be within the 3% deficit prediction last year. It’s likely the deficit will be between 3.2% and 3.4%,” said the former finance minister, adding that this was due to measures by the government to regain public support.

The 2020 Budget will be tabled at about 4pm by Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng. It is the second national budget prepared by the Pakatan Harapan government.

Najib said he expects the budget to announce more government assistance in the wake of declining ratings.

But he said a series of asset sales and “the plundering of Petronas” by the government would mean the expenditures could not be supported.