Johor bahru: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today criticised certain parties that frequently champion Malay supremacy, while at the same time, allowing Malay reserve land to fall into the hands of others. He expressed disappointment that the issue was often used as political capital to garner support and votes during elections, when defending the interests of the Malays should instead be demonstrated through transparent actions and policies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted the inconsistency of politicians who, during election periods, vocalize support for Malay rights yet fail to protect Malay assets once in power. He emphasized the need for these parties to reflect on their contributions towards maintaining Malay reserve lands, noting a significant loss of such lands to non-Malay entities. Anwar addressed this concern while speaking at a gathering with Johor youth during the 2026 Johor-level Kembara Inspirasi Belia Akar Umbi (KIBAR) programme in Taman Melor, Tampoi. The event was attended by Selangor Menteri Besar and Pakatan Harapan (PH) Johor State Election director, Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, and Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, pointed to his administration's efforts as evidence of their commitment to Malay interests. For the first time since independence, the government has gazetted 20.23 hectares of strategic land in Bandar Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, as Malay reserve land. The Bandar Malaysia project, located at the former Sungai Besi Air Base, is anticipated to have a gross development value (GDV) of RM140 billion. This move, Anwar stated, underscores the government's dedication to protecting the rights of Malays and Bumiputera while ensuring that other communities also benefit from national development.
He further mentioned that empowering Bumiputera entrepreneurs remains a priority through various initiatives, including the launch of the Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Berhad (PUNB) SParK 2026: Business Transformation programme. The programme aims to approve loans up to RM2.25 billion from 2026 to 2030 to bolster Bumiputera entrepreneurship development, demonstrating a tangible commitment to economic empowerment.