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Part: Moral Responsibility

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Islamic ethics strongly emphasize justice, compassion, and the welfare of the community. In a time when many Malaysians, particularly the B40, are struggling to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare, it raises a moral dilemma whether it is justifiable for MPs to receive such large pensions. When there is poverty and hunger, prioritizing self-enrichment or luxurious privileges is antithetical to the teachings of Islam. Prophet had emphasized the importance of leaders being servants to their people, not exploiting their positions for excessive personal gain.

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The concept of "halal" extends beyond what is permitted or lawful in food consumption; it also applies to economic activities and societal conduct. The extravagant pensions given to MPs while the country's most vulnerable citizens suffer are neither just nor ethically halal under these interpretations.

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Part 2: Economic Context - Worsening Poverty and National Debt

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Post-Covid pandemic, Malaysia's B40 community is severely impacted by rising living costs, stagnant wages, and limited social safety nets. As the national debt increases, there is mounting pressure on the government to introduce austerity measures such as cutting subsidies, reducing public services, and potentially raising taxes. Meanwhile, government officials, including MPs, continue to enjoy pensions that far exceed what is seen in other sectors.

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The juxtaposition between poverty and luxury: In a time of economic strain, it is difficult to justify MPs receiving pensions of such magnitude. These funds could be better used to support critical social programs for the needy or invested in public services. Public outcry and growing dissatisfaction reflect how citizens perceive these pensions as wasteful and inconsistent with the economic realities most people face.

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Part 3: Religious Duty and Social Justice

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Holy script An-Nisa (4:58) commands that "You should render back the trusts to those to whom they are due, and when you judge between people, judge with justice." This verse can be interpreted to mean that MPs, as stewards of the public’s trust and resources, should ensure that funds are distributed fairly and for the benefit of all, particularly the poor and underprivileged.

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Part 4: Political Implications and Gettng Ready to Win GE16

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The disconnect between the B40's struggles and MPs receiving hefty pensions contributes to the erosion of public trust. Many feel that public officials are out of touch with the realities of the people they represent, which undermines democratic governance. Citizens may question whether leaders who benefit from such privileges are incentivized to address poverty, improve social services, or reduce national debt.

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Only by reforming these pensions could symbolize solidarity between government officials and the rakyat (people), demonstrating a willingness to share in the sacrifices needed to address the nation’s economic challenges.

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While 90% EPF members under age 30 would not be expected to retire with more than RM240k saving.......

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It is unethical, potentially sinful, and non-halal for Members of Parliament (MPs) in Malaysia to receive large pensions—reportedly RM100,000+ per month—while the nation faces rising poverty, an expanding B40 (bottom 40% income earners) population, and increasing national debt is grounded in both moral and socio-economic considerations.

Posted by EngineeringProfit > 1 month ago | Report Abuse

It is unethical, potentially sinful, and non-halal for Members of Parliament (MPs) in Malaysia to receive large pensions—reportedly RM100,000+ per month—while the nation faces rising poverty, an expanding B40 (bottom 40% income earners) population, and increasing national debt is grounded in both moral and socio-economic considerations.