KUALA LUMPUR: The government will be spending close to RM10 billion in subsidies and incentives in various sectors, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today.

In a blog post, Najib said in the paddy and rice sector, the government has provided RM1.3 billion to spur the production of paddy yields and help farmers, and as for rubber tappers, the government has allocated RM510 million in subsidy and incentive, including the Rainy Season Assistance.

Aside from allocating RM260 million in fishermen’s allowances, the government is also bearing the cooking gas subsidy of RM1.6 billion for this year, as well as the electricity bill subsidy totalling RM124 million.

“This year, the government is also bearing the toll compensation so as to prevent a hike in toll rates. All these are being done to make life easier for the people and to grow the local economy.

“The accusations by some quarters that the government is being inconsiderate by removing subsidies are not true.

The government is still bearing subsidies each year, and the figure is increasing according to global market prices.

“However, what is important is to ensure that the subsidies reach those who are in need,” he said in his speech published on his blog.

Najib said that in a developing nation, subsidies and incentives played an important role in helping the people’s and nation’s economy, but noted that subsidies were essentially for those who were in need.

“This is why subsidies and incentives have to be divided in a targeted manner, not comprehensively,” he added.-nst