KUALA LUMPUR (March 31): Federal and state governments may now utilise funds from their respective consolidated fund with the approval of the federal treasury, menteri besar or chief minister throughout the Emergency Ordinance period.

This comes as Putrajaya today issued its latest federal gazette to include the amendment in the Emergency Ordinance 2021 that was promulgated by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and first published in January.

Utilisation from the consolidated fund, the gazette said, “may be in such manner as may be provided by any written law or any Treasury Instructions or Treasury Circulars relating thereto for the time being in force”.

Meanwhile, the gazette also included another amendment for proceeds from Treasury Bills and government investment issuance not to be restricted for payment into the Development Fund.

The restrictions, which are highlighted in paragraph 4(b) of the Government Funding Act 1983 and paragraph 2(2)(b) of the Treasury Bills (Local) Act 1946, shall “have no effect” as long as the Emergency is in force, the gazette said.

The Emergency Ordinance was proclaimed by the King under Article 150 of the Federal Constitution on Jan 11, citing the existence of a grave emergency threatening the security, economic life and public order in the country due to Covid-19.

Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has guided for the Emergency Ordinance to end by August, pending the King’s decision under the advice of an independent special committee, after which the 15th General Election is expected to be held.

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