Kuala lumpur: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), presented by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the Dewan Rakyat, heralds significant advancements for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), the Bumiputera economic empowerment agenda, and national disaster management, as highlighted by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the plan emphasizes enhancing the minimum wage beyond current standards and implementing a premium wage scheme, which aims to boost the education system and improve job marketability across Malaysia. Ahmad Zahid expressed gratitude for the inclusion of the Bumiputera Economic Transformation Plan 2035 (PuTERA35) within the 13MP, featuring 132 initiatives from the Bumiputera Economic Congress resolutions. He hopes these measures will benefit communities in rural, suburban, and urban areas, including in Sabah and Sarawak.
Ahmad Zahid, who leads the National Disaster Management Committee, praised the government's strategic efforts to bolster disaster management and mitigation, especially for natural disasters such as floods. He noted that the 13MP comes amid economic uncertainties and supply chain disruptions, which pose challenges to Malaysia's competitiveness and public welfare. The roadmap for 2026-2030 is set to focus on economic empowerment through digitalization and advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, alongside an integrated approach to sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof emphasized the need for a carefully structured implementation of the 13MP, adopting a holistic approach that embraces all societal layers, development sectors, environmental sustainability, and strong governance. This is essential for bolstering Malaysia's global competitiveness and prominence. The plan outlines nine main focus areas under the three pillars of the MADANI Economy, including transitioning towards an AI-based nation and promoting high-growth, high-value industries with global impacts.
Fadillah, also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, stated that his ministry would prioritize energy security, environmental sustainability, and affordable energy and water costs. The government plans to introduce a more transparent energy market, including new tariffs and a 'time of use' concept for prudent energy consumption. Furthermore, an in-depth study on nuclear technology as an energy source will be conducted, complementing existing sources like solar and supporting the development of new sustainable energy solutions.
The government also intends to focus on Flood Mitigation Plan projects across several states to mitigate flood risks and ensure water security. Infrastructure connectivity and basic facilities in Sabah and Sarawak will be enhanced through ongoing projects like the Pan Borneo and Trans Borneo highways. The Prime Minister underscored the 13MP's foundation on three key aspects: building a sovereign and dignified nation, fostering a social system rooted in MADANI values, and transitioning to an AI-driven economy.