Kuala lumpur: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) is a comprehensive initiative aimed at promoting equitable development and economic growth across various regions, including Sabah and Sarawak, as announced by Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. The plan not only continues existing projects but also introduces new initiatives to boost regional development holistically.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Amir Hamzah, who also serves as the acting Economy Minister, highlighted that the 13MP will introduce several new industries, such as carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) technology and the development of the hydrogen industry in states like Terengganu and Sarawak. The plan aims to reduce the development gap between urban and rural areas and among different regions.

The minister detailed plans for establishing CCUS hubs on the east coast in Terengganu and in Sarawak, with hydrogen being a new focus industry for both Sarawak and Terengganu. He also emphasized Sabah's potential as a major hub for the blue economy, leveraging its tourism sector and maritime resources.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim presented the 13MP in the Dewan Rakyat, which is built on three key pillars: forging a sovereign and dignified nation, developing a people-centred MADANI social system, and strategically transitioning towards an AI-driven economy.

Amir Hamzah stressed the importance of social mobility within the 13MP, ensuring that people experience tangible benefits from the country's development and economic growth. He noted that the plan focuses on increasing job opportunities and implementing workforce reforms, including a more progressive minimum wage structure based on skill levels, alongside encouraging industries to restructure their payroll systems to reflect this new approach.