KOTA BARU: The state government today conveyed its heartfelt appreciation for the RM58.6 million 'wang ihsan' (compassionate aid) provided by the Federal government last week, highlighting its significance in easing the challenges faced by the state.
Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud, however, expressed his hope that the distribution of the funds would proceed according to the scheduled payments, adhering to the principles and spirit of the federation.
"On behalf of the state government, l would like to thank Federal government for the RM58.6 million 'wang ihsan'.
"The state government is always transparent in distributing any government's allocations aimed at enhancing the welfare of the people in Kelantan.
"The compassionate aid funds are duly allocated within the State Budget, and all receipts and expenditures outlined in the budget undergo thorough auditing by the National Audit Department," he said in a statement.
The Meranti assemblyman and his state executive councillor members then wished Prime Minister 'Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir Batin'.
It was reported yesterday that the Federal government disbursed compassionate aid totalling RM172.3 million to Terengganu and RM58.6 million to Kelantan last week. These funds are designated to support the emolument commitments of the respective state governments.
(https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1035871/federal-govt-disburse...)
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who concurrently serves as the Finance Minister, announced that the federal government had additionally disbursed RM103.1 million to cover the Terengganu government's obligations towards its contractors.
"Any remaining balance in the 'wang ihsan' will be utilised for Terengganu and Kelantan through projects or people-oriented programmes. These initiatives may include poverty eradication programmes and basic infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the well-being of the people of both states.
"In connection with the 'wang ihsan', it is important to note that it is not grants from the Federal government enshrined by law. Instead, the Madani government channelled 'wang ihsan' payments derived from petroleum revenues, amounting to RM786 million to Terengganu and RM200 million to Kelantan last year," he clarified.
Anwar emphasised that the Madani government is dedicated to ensuring that the 'wang ihsan' earmarked for the benefit of Terengganu and Kelantan is prioritised for expenditures that will directly benefit the people of both states.
