IN THIS global recession, the Government announced the Budget statement a month earlier than usual.
The main concerns addressed included saving jobs so employees remain employable and their way of life is not much affected; providing more financial help to vulnerable groups such as the needy and the elderly; and giving more incentives in terms of tax rebate or tax reduction to companies and individuals.
On saving jobs, I have a different angle.
Why save the job of a salesman (for example) when he has no customers? Let me explain.
A salesman sells a product, say, TV sets. But if there are no customers to buy TV sets, why is the salesman needed?
I suggest we create demand rather than merely save jobs.
If more people buy TV sets (that is, demand has been created), the salesman is much needed. Then his job is saved with earnings from the sale of TV sets.
Likewise, if there is demand for goods and services, there will be a plentiful supply of jobs.
I strongly advise against giving handouts without strings attached, except to the needy and the elderly.
There are people who rely on financial assistance and handouts, even though they are strong and able. They see no incentive to get a job since the Government has measures in place to help every citizen. They are like leeches on society because the financial assistance and handouts do not fall freely from the sky. The money comes from taxpayers.
There is a saying that applies here: 'Give a man a fish, and you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish, and you have fed him for a lifetime.'
I hope the Government will seriously consider creating demand rather than merely saving jobs.
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