Some of the other priorities listed in the coalition’s manifesto include providing wider access to higher education for the B40 (Bottom 40 per cent income group) and marginalised groups. He also said that GTA will ensure sustainable policies in good environmental management, especially in terms of addressing the floods issue.
In the broadly worded manifesto which contained few specifics in terms of the policies, Dr Mahathir also promised to ensure that the cost for children and elderly care will be minimised with government support.
“We will not promise the moon and stars if we become the government. From past experience, we have found that when there are too many promises and the promises exceed the capability, it is almost certain that they will not be fulfilled,” said the former prime minister.
Under the economic pillar of the manifesto, Dr Mahathir said that GTA is ready to reconsider the ratification of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
“This is because the costs outweigh the benefits and only a small group of big capital players get the benefit.
“The process of evaluating any international trade agreements should go through a comprehensive cost-benefit study, comprehensive public consultation and parliamentary oversight,” he said.
Putrajaya ratified the CPTPP in September this year.
In GE15, Dr Mahathir, 97, will defend his Langkawi seat. His son Mukhriz Mahathir will again contest in Jerlun, Kedah while Mr Amiruddin Hamzah, the secretary-general of Parti Pejuang Tanah Air (Pejuang), will defend the Kubang Pasu seat in Kedah.
