THE Opposition has proposed the formation of a bipartisan committee to review the targets that were not met in the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).
Opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin (pic) said the committee, which would include representatives from the government and the Opposition, will also explore more effective implementation strategies for the success of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) and beyond.
"In the spirit of transparency and accountability, Tambun (Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) and the Cabinet must 'walk the talk' and explain to the public what happened with the unachieved targets," he said, adding that a special cross-party committee should be established to scrutinise the gaps in 12MP's achievements and to explore more effective implementation measures for the future.
"There is nothing wrong with the Prime Minister taking a step back to reflect, assess the achievements of 12MP, and ensure we all remain grounded before new figures are presented in the 13MP.
"The 13MP is a national effort to shape the future of the country. It is a five-year development plan meant for all Malaysians.
"Whoever governs in Putrajaya must accept the reality that this plan is not the exclusive domain of any single political party; it belongs to all of us," said Hamzah, who is the Larut MP, during the debate on the 13MP in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.
He also said the government needs to clarify all matters compromised in the reciprocal tariff negotiations with the United States.
The 13MP targets GDP growth of between 4.5% and 5.5%, the creation of 1.2 million new jobs, and a gross national income per capita of RM77,200, according to official government projections.
However, concerns remain over the plan's viability, with questions raised about the government's fiscal capacity to fund the RM611bil allocation without placing additional strain on the public.
He also questioned whether there is sufficient political will to implement meaningful institutional reforms, the effectiveness of proposed strategies in delivering social justice, and whether the plan's indicators and targets are robust enough to guide Malaysia's progress over the next five years.
Hamzah also congratulated and commended the Prime Minister for his key role in arranging a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia.
He said the coalition welcomed any Malaysian involvement in efforts to strengthen regional stability.
"Whatever role played by the Prime Minister, even if described by some as simply that of a host, it remains a contribution that will be recorded in history.
"What's important is that Malaysia continues to be respected as a sovereign nation and is regarded as a credible balancing power in the region," he said.
On July 28, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an unconditional and immediate ceasefire following a special meeting in Putrajaya chaired by Anwar.