Seven months after being established to accept public contributions, the Tabung Harapan Malaysia Fund will officially close on Dec 31. 

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng expressed profound gratitude and thanked Malaysians for their show of patriotism in wanting to ease the government’s financial burden.

As of 9am today, the fund stood at RM199,140,218.80.

"The fund is the result of initiatives by individuals, organisations, NGOs, and fixed deposit interest as administered by the Accountant-General’s Department," he said in a statement today.

All parties wishing to contribute to the fund are requested, as soon as possible, to transfer money or contributions via cheques, which is tax deductible.

"The government will ensure that this donation will be used to settle the national debt," he said, adding that every sen donated is appreciated.

 Lim said he was touched by the people's concern and them being united in helping the government settle the national debt issue.

"Although the RM1 trillion debt surpasses the proceeds collected, the government appreciates the people's solidarity in addressing the national debt.

"The government hopes for this spirit not to fade and can be maintained forever," he added.

Lim also thanked the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V for his contribution.

He also said the National Audit Department would audit the fund's account receipt and payment statement to ensure Tabung Harapan is managed with integrity.

The Finance Ministry would also appoint an external audit firm to audit Tabung Harapan's accounts in line with Section 7 of the Audit Act 1957.

- Bernama