Govt set to conclude discussions on focus areas

KUALA LUMPUR (July 30, 2012): The government will conclude detailed discussions on the 18 focus areas for the Budget 2013 by the end of this week, Deputy Finance Minister, Datuk Donald Lim Siang Chai said.

To date, 15 areas have been discussed, and another three would be deliberated at the next meeting slated for the end of this week, he said.

“Among the areas are small and medium enterprises, green technology, affordable housing and the urban transformation plan,” he told reporters after launching the Adamas Franchise Concept Outlet, a wedding planning consultancy firm, here today.

Lim said all proposals tendered by organisations and the public for consideration in the annual budget are being scrutinised, and the outcome will only be known when the Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak tables the Budget 2013 in Parliament on Sept 28.

On a possible announcement on the goods and services tax (GST) as well as a slash in corporate tax, he said: “As far as these issues are concerned, there is feedback from many quarters. We are taking into account all suggestions and the next step is to consult will all the stakeholders.” — Bernama