Social activist Lee Lam Thye has suggested that the government downgrade the flight class used by ministers and senior government officials during overseas trips as part of broader efforts to practise prudent spending.
The proposal follows the government’s recent decision not to organise official Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house events this year as part of cost-saving measures.
Lee said the recommendation should be considered in line with the spirit of financial prudence, particularly as the ongoing conflict in West Asia — now approaching its third week — continues to create uncertainty in the global economy.
The chairman of the Alliance for Safe Community said ministers and senior government officials could downgrade their travel arrangements from first class to business class if official overseas visits are necessary.
He also proposed that official delegations be kept small and limited only to essential personnel to ensure trips remain focused while helping reduce government expenditure.
Lee further suggested that meetings should be conducted virtually whenever possible, with wider use of digital platforms to minimise travel costs.
He added that ministries and government agencies could also review other non-urgent spending to ensure that public funds are utilised efficiently and responsibly.
According to Lee, such measures would help strengthen public confidence by demonstrating the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline and responsible management of national resources.
“Prudent management of the nation’s resources today will help ensure the country remains resilient and better prepared to face future uncertainties,” he said in a statement today.
Last week, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that all ministries, government agencies and government-linked companies would not organise Aidilfitri open house events this year.
He said the Cabinet decision was made in response to global economic uncertainties arising from the ongoing conflict in West Asia, sending a clear signal that the government is adopting a more moderate and careful approach to public spending.
Apart from cancelling the festive open house events, Anwar also stated that ministers and members of the administration would limit overseas travel unless the engagements were pre-scheduled or deemed essential.
Lee welcomed the government’s move towards prudent spending, describing it as a timely and responsible decision amid the current global uncertainty.
He noted that the prolonged crisis in West Asia has affected economic stability, energy prices and the overall cost of living worldwide.
“At a time when many Malaysians are tightening their belts and practising greater financial restraint, it is appropriate for the government to demonstrate similar prudence and fiscal discipline in managing public funds,” he said, adding that such steps would signal the government’s commitment to prioritising spending that directly benefits the people.
