Gerakan Vice-President, Dato’ Mah Siew Keong today called on the Cabinet to ensure that review of the contract between the Government and Independent Power Producers (IPP) is transparent and people-centric. He said the renegotiation of terms with IPPs must result in a more balanced and equitable arrangement to ensure that people do not bear the brunt of any future increase of power tariffs.

“It is hard to explain and propound on why IPPs receives subsidies when many of them are making so much money. The review announced by Second Finance Minister, Datuk Seri Husni Hanadzlah is a an obvious relief but what’s more important is the outcome. The review must reorientate the subsidy burden so the government can spend more on the people and their welfare,” said Mah.

Mah also added that this is an issue that is longstanding and despite the legal hurdles, the government must take a tough stand with the IPPs and ensure that they do not continue to reap unjustifiable benefits whilst the people have to deal with the rising cost of living.

“In the spirit of “People First” I am sure the Cabinet committee will make the right decision in the interests of the Rakyat,” said Mah.