At that time, Ma Xudong was on a study tour far away from home.
It had always been popular for governmental agencies to engage in study tours. Initially, this was a great way to foster progress and development, but gradually, it degenerated. Learning and inspection became secondary, while the main focus shifted to the consumption of public funds.
Don't think that because Ma Xudong was in a remote township in Yangbei, the town couldn't afford to send its leading officials on travel and consumption trips under the guise of learning and inspection.
In fact, for a long time, from the past into the present and perhaps even into the future, due to general policy guidelines, there was significant support for remote areas. There was plenty of money allocated, and it had to be spent. If it wasn't spent one year, the next year's allocation would be reduced.
