LETTER | The prime minister must be congratulated for having put the interests of the people and nation before his own comfort, needs and entitlements.

Anwar Ibrahim’s decision not to accept his monthly salary, allowances and reject the offer of a brand new Mercedes-Maybach S600, a luxury saloon with a starting price of RM1.35 million augurs well for the governance of the cash-strapped country.

It will be incumbent upon the cabinet members to emulate the prime minister and voluntarily either accept a reduction of up to 50 percent of their salaries and allowances or use their personal vehicles.

Going by their declaration of income upon taking office in the past, most of them are well off financially, with assets running into a few million ringgit.

This is way beyond the meagre earnings of the struggling B40.

The only exception is probably Amanah president Mohamad Sabu.

I would therefore urge cabinet members and other political appointees to walk the talk of their determination to uplift the poor and needy.

Likewise, a thorough overhaul should be carried out of the salaries, benefits and privileges of those in GLC.

The concept of personal and family enrichment through GLC appointments and other such bodies must end forthwith.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.