The DAP MP said elected representatives are often expected to step in with immediate financial assistance because struggling families see politicians as the quickest source of help.
“Perhaps not so much among the middle class in Bangsar or PJ, but many among the B40 expect their representatives to help solve the problems they face,” she said during a discussion titled “Who Pays, Who Plays, Who Decides?”.
The event was organised by think tank Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs, which released a report titled “How costly are political parties?”.
The report said that in Malaysia, politicians are expected to provide gifts and financial contributions during weddings, births, sickness and deaths to remain relevant at the grassroots level.
It also said some political expenses are partially supported through public resources such as constituency development funds, with estimates suggesting that basic constituency office operations alone could cost about RM156,000 per year.
Wong recounted helping a family with seven children, including a newborn born during Ramadan, whose mother was unable to open her stall while her husband cared for the other six children.
She also cited the case of a seasoned politician who told her that people regularly lined up outside his house seeking financial aid.
“This has been going on for years. How do we break this cycle? People expect us to help,” she said.
Wong attributed it to economic hardship. “Politicians also want to look after voters (who seek assistance),” she said.
She said money in politics should not always be viewed negatively, noting that MPs and assemblymen need funds to maintain constituency offices, pay staff and serve the public effectively.
“Can we create a structure where those in office have the funds needed to maintain offices in their constituencies?
“Slowly, we need to look at how we can do better so politicians can focus on policies,” she said, adding that targeted aid could help families and enable the welfare department to better manage those in need.