Universiti Malaya’s Awang Azman Awang Pawi said allowances that were no longer relevant should be cut down to prevent wastage as the government navigates the current economic climate.

“Besides ending the critical service allowance, the government should think about how to cut the exorbitant allowances for ministers.

“It’s time for the government to evaluate whether their salaries and allowances are suitable in this current economic situation.

“Be a government that listens to the people’s voice, who now want allowances of ministers to be cut. Many other allowances may also be unnecessary,” he told FMT.

Last Wednesday, the Public Service Department (JPA) decided it will stop paying the critical service allowance (BIPK) to new civil servants appointed from Jan 1, 2020 to cut down future expenses. JPA said current staff will not be affected by this move.

However, following public protests through social media, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has agreed to put off the decision on PIBK and discuss it further at the next Cabinet meeting.

Awang Azman said the allowances of top government officials, such as those in the top Jusa and Turus categories, should also be reviewed.

“The pay of CEOs in government-linked companies, which are seemingly too high, must also be reevaluated.”

He said the people should not be the only ones sacrificing for the country as they wanted elected representatives to also make sacrifices.