RTM Salary Crisis Highlights Lopsided Budget Priorities

Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), the national broadcaster, has left over 700 part-time employees unpaid since June, revealing a troubling crisis in budget allocation and financial management. Piecemeal workers, crucial to RTM’s operations, report that the broadcaster cited pending government funds as the reason for delayed payments. Despite the lack of pay, department heads instructed them to keep working, forcing many into severe financial hardship.

RTM’s management promises to resolve outstanding payments by the end of this month. According to them, the Finance Ministry nears completion of approving special rates for part-time workers. The ministry suddenly cancelled prior approvals in June. Thus, disrupting procurement rates for non-civil servant services. This decision created the current situation. Although the promised resolution may provide temporary relief, it highlights deeper problems in budget planning and fund allocation.

Even PH Members Criticize Budget And RTM Salary Crisis

Critics have pointed to the broader flaws in the government’s budgeting priorities. Puchong MP Gobind Singh Deo has criticized the lopsided allocation of funds, highlighting the RM85.5 million budgeted to revive the controversial Special Affairs Department (Jasa) while RTM staff suffer from unpaid salaries. This disparity reflects a troubling misalignment of priorities, as essential public services like national broadcasting face neglect in favor of political propaganda units.

The delayed payments have not only impacted RTM’s workforce but also exposed cracks in the ministry’s financial oversight. Budget inefficiencies have trickled down to the workers, many of whom depend entirely on their RTM income. Managers issued ultimatums to some employees, demanding they either continue working without pay or leave their jobs. This approach worsens an already dire situation.

While RTM’s promise to settle overdue payments is welcome, it highlights the need for urgent reform in financial planning and execution. The government must ensure that public funds are allocated fairly and effectively. Moreover, it should prioritize the welfare of essential workers who keep critical services running. The current crisis at RTM serves as a stark reminder of what happens when budgets fail to align with public interest and operational needs.