KUALA LUMPUR: The government needs to listen and respond with discretion to the voices of the 'struggling' rakyat, says Perikatan Nasional Federal Territories Information chief Mahathir Mohd Rais.
He said the disparity between citizens' needs and government actions raises serious questions about governance priorities and responsibilities.
Mahathir, who is also Bersatu Information Chief said that despite facing economic challenges, the government's response must reflect a profound understanding of citizens' situations, aiming to build trust and instill hope among those most affected.
He added that the balance between debt management and social obligations should be the government's primary focus, ensuring that every step taken is economically effective but also fair and empathetic towards the rakyat's lives.
He highlighted that the change in government has introduced various measures that have significantly impacted the rakyat, especially in urban areas.
"This impact is particularly felt by some residents of public housing projects (PPR) and public housing (PA).
"The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has implemented strict measures against tenants who fail to pay rent, including water supply cut-off operations and house seizures," he said.
Supported by members of the PH-BN coalition in parliament, he noted that these measures triggered disappointment and anger among citizens who felt betrayed by their representatives.
The house seizure actions, he said, are viewed as inhumane, prompting questions about empathy and social justice in handling debts and fulfilling social obligations to citizens.
The harsh actions, he added, seemingly disconnected from the welfare of citizens, exacerbate the socio-economic situation, contributing to social instability.
"Amid this deep economic and social crisis, the rakyat questions how a government should act.
"The rakyat needs support, not punishment, during these challenging times," he said, adding that the support measures and social assistance programmes for the B40 group need to be strengthened.
Mahathir called for a more compassionate and meaningful approach, aiming not only to alleviate financial burdens but also to provide hope and motivation for them to overcome these hardships.
