Wan Rosdy leads Pahang to new financial heights with record revenue, debt cuts

SHAH ALAM – Pahang has emerged as an outstanding example of fiscal resilience, overcoming financial challenges without borrowing a single penny from the Federal Government during its tenure as opposition state.

Under the leadership of its Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, the state has successfully bolstered its revenue while maintaining its independence.

Reflecting on the state’s prior financial difficulties, Wan Rosdy revealed that Pahang once faced a critical period when its funds could only sustain public servant salaries for three months.

The financial strain occurred during the state’s 22-month tenure as an opposition state following the historic 14th General Election (GE14) which saw the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition unexpectedly lost power in the country they had ruled for over half a century.

“The experience of being in opposition for the first time brought immense pressure.

“I could not bring myself to approach the Finance Minister for assistance, as my pride and integrity were at stake. Therefore, we had to stand on our own. However, increasing revenue had to be achieved without burdening the people,” Wan Rosdy said during a Town Hall session held at Dewan Karangkraf on Friday.

Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail

Wan Rosdy disclosed that the state’s leadership implemented strategic measures to increase revenue, including revising land and timber taxes.

He said landowners with plots below 4.047 hectares and plantations under 16.188 hectares were exempted from the increase, to ensure that the adjustments did not disproportionately affect smallholders.

“Prior to this, land tax rates had not been revised for 26 years and timber tax had remained unchanged for 30 years. The adjustments were made after thorough comparisons with other states, where tax rates were significantly higher,” said.

These measures allowed Pahang to generate substantial revenue, enabling the state to remain financially self-reliant during its 22-month stint as an opposition state.

“Despite the challenges, we managed to avoid borrowing from the Federal Government, demonstrating our commitment to financial independence,” Rosdy added.

Since overcoming this critical period, Pahang has recorded remarkable financial milestones.

In 2024, the state’s revenue collection reached RM1.144 billion, surpassing its target of RM1.137 billion. This marks the third consecutive year Pahang has achieved over RM1 billion in revenue.

Additionally, the state has significantly reduced its debt, cutting it from RM3.31 billion to RM950 million. These achievements highlighted Pahang’s commitment to fiscal discipline and innovative governance.

The Town Hall programme, organised by Sinar Harian, served as a platform for dialogue between leaders and citizens, addressing community concerns.

The event included an interactive session hosted by actor and presenter Fikry Ibrahim, allowing attendees to voice their questions and suggestions. This initiative aims to foster deeper understanding of community needs and aspirations, particularly in relation to state governance.