Debate heats up after call to end pension for lawmakers

Dato’ Jason Ong Khan Lee, PKR Bukit Bendera division chairman and former state assemblyman for Kebun Bunga, has thrown his weight behind the proposition to eliminate pension schemes for state assemblymen and Members of Parliament (MPs).

The call, made during a Chinese New Year event at Crystal Family Home Care Centre in Air Itam, reflects a wider debate on the financial implications and necessity of such schemes for elected representatives.

Singapore shows the way or EPF-based retirement

Ong drew parallels between Malaysia’s current pension system and that of Singapore, emphasising the role of the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and Singapore’s Central Provident Fund (CPF).

He asserted, “Elected representatives in Singapore only have the CPF, which functions as their pension scheme. I do not see why it cannot be done in Malaysia too.”

This aligns with the proposal set forth by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, advocating for a system where the EPF serves as the primary retirement benefit for politicians.

Ong further underscored that, with the exception of the Philippines, South Korea, and Japan, most countries in the region do not have specific pension schemes for politicians based on their years of government service.

He cited examples, stating, “Countries such as Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia do not have such pension schemes for their MPs.”

In contrast, he noted the UK, US, and Europe utilising separate pension funds dedicated to providing retirement benefits for politicians, preventing a strain on national finances.

Anwar’s bold pension proposal sparks debate

The endorsement of Datuk Seri Anwar’s proposal by Ong triggers an examination of Malaysia’s current pension system against global practices.

The move challenges the conventional approach and raises questions about the potential consequences on the financial well-being of retired politicians and the overall fiscal resilience of the country.

Expressing his support, Ong asserted, “Datuk Seri Anwar made a bold move. This is the sort of leader our country needs.

Although the ‘no pension’ proposal might be an unpopular decision, everyone acknowledges that it is the only way to move forward from the financial challenges we are facing.”

The statement highlights the urgency perceived by some leaders in addressing financial challenges and signifies a potential shift in the political landscape regarding pension schemes.

While attending the Chinese New Year event at Crystal Family Home Care Centre, Ong and his Bukit Bendera division members extended festive cheer by distributing ‘angpows’ and goodie bags to 13 underprivileged children.

Amidst the festivities, the focus remained on the crucial proposal to reshape the pension landscape for elected representatives, a move that could have far-reaching implications for the country’s fiscal health.