KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 10 ― Many Malaysians were surprised by an announcement on Friday that the much-criticised Budget 2016 will be revised to “mirror” the falling oil prices. The announcement, made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, stated this year was going to be a challenging year, adding the government would strive towards an efficient and optimised management of resources, while ensuring the country's economy remains sustainable. Malay Mail engaged with Malaysians from all walks of life on the revision for Budget 2016, and most were pessimistic over the upcoming revision exercise.

Nur Lina Mastura, 24, freelance writer

“The prime minister said the Goods and Services Tax (GST) will benefit the people but we have not seen any proof, so far.

“What is more important is a long-term and viable mechanism to channel assistance, not just a short-term fix like 1Malaysia People's Aid.

Nurfadhilah Jalaludin, 29, corporate communications officer

“The revised budget should focus on cushioning the impact of the surge in the cost of living that has been drastic over the past year, especially for the low-income earners and urban poor.

“However, I hope the revision will be more realistic and not just populist in nature.”

Ahmad Fuad Mohd Paiz, 28, teacher

“There is nothing we could do about the budget revision. It is necessary because of external factors, such as the drop in oil prices on the global market.

“For now, we have to learn to tighten our belts, and if our economy improves in the near future, then the budget can be revised again.

“The government has to look into reducing the cost of living, and changing the mechanism for subsidy and assistance. The interest of the middle class group — the engine room that drives the country — should also be looked into.”

Jack Chua, 17, student

“I would like to see them implement more allocations for educational purposes, as I believe education is the launchpad for almost everything. As a student, this is something that I really hope to see.”

Nazhan John, 20, student

“Whatever revisions they make, I hope it will contribute to curbing the ringgit's drop in value because that is my main concern for now.”

Nasuha Abu Bakar, 28, medical officer

“Hopefully, there will be an increase in budget allocation for health and education. I’m not sure what to expect, but this is what I’m looking forward to.”

Naza Mohd, 25, fresh graduate

“I’m looking forward to hearing about reductions for expenses like tolls and taxes, as well as more allocation for education. But I’m sceptical.”

Tabitha Rani, 26, events manager

“Ideally, the dream would be to have GST and income tax reduced, but I don’t really know what revisions to expect.”

Victoria Tho, 23, accountant

“I would like the prices of goods, toll and transport fares to go down, but I doubt that will happen.”

Desmond Wong, 35, engineer

“The PM should allocate more funds for the people's welfare, such as returning our subsidies as well as allocating more for education. But I'm afraid it will be unimportant and unnecessary areas of the budget that will be revised.”

Anwar Haikal, 25, graphic designer

“With the current economic situation, I hope this revised budget will cater more to the needs and necessities of those who have just started working.”

 Manisha Kunaseelan, 29, medical officer

“This revised budget shows that the government is taking a keen interest in the hardships endured by the people. Hopefully, there's a good outcome from it.”

Kum Mei Woon, 45, information technology specialist

“I hope the revision of the budget can accommodate the needs of not only government servants and those in the private sector, but the poor and unemployed as well, as the country's flailing economy has seen many suffer from unemployment and retrenchment.”

Nurul Syahirah Malik, 60, part-time tuition teacher

“A revision of the budget will benefit a lot of people. I hope those in rural areas will not be left out.”

Wan Tiara Mahidin, 19, student

“I am glad that the budget is being revised, because with the current state of our country's economy, this move is necessary to help the people, young and old.”