Semporna MP Mohd Shafie Apdal said affirmative actions for the needy should be premised on principles of justice and equity, not based on providing “perpetual assistance”.

“Priority should be given to efforts to remove the barriers to success, not to have perpetual assistance or a culture of a long-term crutch,” Shafie said while debating the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Affirmative actions should provide the people with capital, knowledge and skills, among others. Most importantly, it should foster grit and endurance, Shafie said.