PETALING JAYA: Social media users have zeroed in on the "elaborate" launch of the Home Ministry's flood aid mission, questioning the need for the expenses incurred.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, who launched the mission, had put up photos of the event on Wednesday (Dec 21) on his Facebook page.
The event also marked the ministry's cooperation with the Food Bank Foundation Malaysia to distribute 1,000 meal boxes to flood victims.
Facebook user Afflizam Sanidzam Affrini asked how many eggs could have been bought and distributed to flood victims for the cost of the event's backdrop.
Another user, Surenthar Sahotharan, warned Saifuddin not to "follow Umno's feudal culture".
"There is no need for a backdrop and stage decorations for an aid mission. The aid is being done on an ad hoc basis, but there is still time to book the backdrop first?" he added.
Hazaini Adzhan commented: "This culture of launching ceremonies can already stop. It's a natural disaster, why is there a need for a launch ceremony?
"The (backdrop) shouldn't have been ordered. It's a waste. A simple and fast ceremony would be OK. People are waiting for aid," he wrote.
Michael Chan commented that Saifuddin should emulate Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
"Action, no need to show off. Straight to the files to help or ask the relevant agency," said Chan.
Ahmad Arzmi said it was a waste of time. "There is no need for a launch ceremony like this," he said.
Saifuddin, who flagged off the flood aid mission before attending the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday morning, said he will also be heading to affected locations on Thursday (Dec 22) to observe relief efforts.
