Friday, February 13, 2009

Surprised? Not Really!

Another classic Boleh-land example

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia scored a dismal 35 out of 100 points in the Open Budget Index (OBI) 2008 and is ranked 53rd out of 85 countries, prompting Centre for Public Policy Studies chairman Tan Sri Dr Ramon Navaratnam to declare he was “surprised and embarrassed.”

Malaysia is now listed under the “minimal information” category on Budget information provided by the Government, behind countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

“I am surprised and embarassed to know that our Budget is not as transparent as it should be,” Navaratnam said.

According to the report, the minimal information provided by the Malaysian Government makes it quite difficult for citizens to hold government accountable for its management of the public’s money. Sources here

If you had asked anyone in Malaysia on how transparent is the Government or the budget of the Malaysian Government, I can tell you the answer is a clear cut: Not at all.

To be honest, I'm suprised by Mr Navaratnam's surprised of how Malaysia fared in the OBI. I mean, come on, he's after the chairman of what what studies.

How can it be? Could this be another example of previously dwelling in denials? Thinking Malaysia Boleh and our country is like a developed country's mentality? Now, whose on our levels? Countries we used to look down to.

Imagine one day, Malaysia are classified as one of "them". Oh no, I think I need to get an OZ citizenship if that day comes.

Wake up and smell the roses, Malaysians! Get rid of corruptions! Get rid of racism!

On a side note, any organisations and especially non profit ones should make their budget transparent as well to be accountable to their members or supporters.

After all, what are you scared of? What are you trying to hide? If you're doing the right thing, there're nothing to cover up. Unless of course, you're afraid to let others see how the money are spent?

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