Muzammil Aslam is currently serving as Advisor for Finance, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He has a diverse background, having served as a spokesperson for the Finance Minister in the federal government before becoming the Advisor for Finance in KP. His education includes degrees in economics and public administration, and he has extensive experience in the private sector, particularly in capital markets. In a recent interview with Daily The Public Purview Mr Muzammil Aslam shared valuable insights into the economic landscape.
How did you face challenges in finance, and how do you see it?
Muzammil Aslam: Bismillah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim. Before I became the Advisor for Finance in KP, I was the spokesperson for the Finance Minister in the federal government during PTI’s tenure. The issues were such that a spokesperson for finance was needed, so I was appointed. Additionally, I am the spokesperson for the party on economic affairs, and my official entry into PTI happened when I became the spokesperson. It’s been three years, not very long, but I am very thankful to Imran Khan for bestowing this honor upon me. I would also like to express my gratitude to Shaukat Tarin for giving me ample opportunities to showcase my abilities. Usually, when there is a minister above you, they tend to do everything themselves, and those supporting them don’t get many opportunities. However, Shaukat Sahib involved me in every task, and I had direct assignments from the Prime Minister as well, which boosted my confidence and brought my abilities to the forefront.
What are your views on KP’s progress, and what do you envision for the next five years?
Muzammil Aslam: Firstly, I wonder why this province is poor despite being richly endowed by Allah with abundant water, excellent weather, minerals, and forests. It should be the richest province in Pakistan. However, other provinces have benefited from its resources more than the local people. With the right policies, this province doesn’t need decades to develop; it can progress within years. We have already seen improvements in the province’s financial situation by changing some policy directions within a few months. I believe this province will see significant progress.
Now, things have changed, and electricity is the most expensive in Pakistan, but KP can produce electricity for 500 rupees per unit. We will implement methods to provide cheaper electricity, attracting industries. The province’s minerals are extremely valuable and should be utilized properly, with the revenue benefiting the local people. Similarly, forests can generate billions of dollars if managed scientifically. Imagine, 45% of Pakistan’s forests are in KP, covering 26% of the province. If we don’t utilize this resource, it’s like having fruit on a tree and not harvesting it, resulting in wasted fruit. The most expensive fruits in Pakistan are produced in KP, and this potential should be harnessed for the province’s benefit.
You must have seen that we have taken several measures in this budget to try to reduce our expenses. We have put a ban on purchasing vehicles and hiring unnecessary jobs. Once we set things right, everything else will fall into place.
We have taken significant steps in this budget to reduce expenses. We have banned vehicle purchases and unnecessary hiring to correct our financial direction. Once we achieve that, other things will follow successfully.
Could you share a memorable success from your career?
Muzammil Aslam: Reflecting on my career, I have a few memorable moments. I started in the private sector, working for eight or nine years after completing my education. Eventually, I founded my own company, which was unique in Pakistan’s stock market. We sold it to Egyptians within three months, a significant achievement. After working with them for 18 months, I fully transitioned into politics, directly becoming the spokesperson for PTI. Imran Khan entrusted me with responsibilities, including being an advisor in a different province. I am grateful to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the government officials, and the politicians who welcomed me and gave me the opportunity to work here.
What motivates you the most, and what is your vision for the province’s future?
Muzammil Aslam: What motivates me the most is the desire to do something different and transformative. I don’t want to be a traditional minister; I believe in making tough decisions and adhering to merit. If you look at the budget, people tell me that the benefits we have introduced in the last year outweigh those of the past ten years. We haven’t prioritized political considerations; we have focused on what is best for the province and the country based on merit. We have connected the province with the country in ways never done before, sharing news and developments directly involving the federal government. This level of transparency and connection is unprecedented.
Have you faced any challenges in your work?
Muzammil Aslam: Challenges arise when you are doing something out of the ordinary, for personal gain, or to benefit others unjustly. Fortunately, I haven’t faced any significant challenges in my work. Sometimes, I need to explain and clarify the context and reasons behind our decisions, but overall, I have received more support than expected from the people and officials.
What message do you have for the youth and the people of the province?
Muzammil Aslam: My message to the youth and the people of the province is to recognize the vast potential that lies before them. For example, I recently visited a marble shop and learned that the local marble costs 80-90 rupees per square meter, while the same marble sells for 400-500 rupees in other provinces. Properly designed and marketed, this resource can be highly profitable. Understand your strengths and capabilities; once you do, nothing can stop you. Many people focus solely on government jobs, considering them the best option. However, there is a vast private sector with tremendous business opportunities. Don’t limit yourself to government jobs; explore the immense potential in private enterprise. This mindset shift is crucial for realizing your full potential.
For those who believe that government jobs are the best, this mindset actually hinders your potential.
I believe your true potential can be realized in the private sector. We will make every effort to provide the necessary facilities and take advantage of them. The future of this province is very bright, and I guarantee you that.
