There was no need for the Perikatan Nasional government to issue the new ordinance allowing the federal and state governments to expand the budget without parliamentary oversight.

Institute for Democracy and Economy Affairs, in calling the move an "affront to public accountability", said the Federal Constitution provides enough flexibility for the government to utilise public funds for emergency situations.

Ideas CEO Tricia Yeoh, in a statement issued today, said with such flexibility already built into the constitution, there is no need for the government to issue this amendment to the ordinance and completely sideline Parliament in decision-making concerning the consolidated fund.