IPOH: Malaysia is a country that provides subsidies to all, including the rich, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said this made it essential to restructure subsidy schemes so only targeted groups benefit.
"As for medical treatment at government hospitals, the rich also benefit and some of them earn millions a month.
"So is it wrong that the rich people who seek treatment at government hospitals are charged a higher fee?" he asked.
He also said with the increase in diabetics, the people might reduce sugar intake if its price goes up.
"With the increase in price and profits subsequently go up, the government will not take this money and it can be used for health projects, especially for diabetes treatments.
The Prime Minister said it is not wrong to provide subsidies.
"Should fuel subsidies continue? Yes, but these should only benefit the needy, not the rich," he added.
Citing another example, Anwar said the Tabung Haji subsidy was not provided to those who could afford to pay for the Haj trip this year.
"But of course, the subsidy continued for needy groups such as farmers, fishermen, civil servants, police and army personnel," he said.
Anwar said he did not want national debt to continue rising, saying foreign investors need to see confident economic policies.
He cited Chinese vehicle manufacturer Geely's willingness to invest US$10bil to turn Tanjung Malim in Perak into the region's largest automobile city.
"Geely had postponed this investment several times but now, after seeing the government's efficiency, they are interested in making the investment," he said.
