Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said in a statement that although the nation’s debts amounted to RM1 trillion, the government appreciated the gesture of solidarity and patriotism shown by the people.

The fund has collected RM199,140,218.80 as of Dec 23 and is set to officially close on Dec 31.

“The government appreciates every cent donated. This shows the people are concerned and united in helping the government settle the national debt issue,” Lim said.

He also expressed his appreciation to Yang di-Pertuan Agong XV Sultan Muhammad V who had also contributed to Tabung Harapan.

Lim said the fund was the result of initiatives by individuals, organisations, non-governmental organisations as well as from the fixed deposit interest as administered by the Accountant-General’s Department of Malaysia.

He advised those wishing to contribute to Tabung Harapan to do so quickly before it closes this year-end.

The Bagan MP said the National Audit Department would audit the fund’s Account Receipt and Payment Statement to ensure it was managed systematically and with integrity.

“Although the country’s debt has reached RM1 trillion and surpasses the donations to Tabung Harapan, the government appreciates the people’s solidarity in addressing and hopes this spirit will remain forever,” Lim said.

He said tax deductions would be given to donations made to Tabung Harapan.

Tabung Harapan was established by the Pakatan Harapan government on May 30 to receive donations and contributions from individuals and companies to assist the government in tackling the country’s debt.

A cabinet meeting on May 30 agreed to set it up under subsection 9 (1) of the Financial Procedure Act 1957 (Act 61).