Kuala lumpur: The Budget 2026 tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has been described as a rakyat-centric budget, featuring key reform elements in national governance. Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Seri R. Ramanan emphasized the various initiatives that reflect the MADANI government's concern for the people, such as the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) programme.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Sungai Buloh MP highlighted the inclusivity of the budget, noting allocations for the Indian and Chinese communities through the rebuilding of Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Tamil (SJKT) Jeram and a RM90 million allocation for improvements to Chinese New Villages and Indian Villages. Ramanan remarked that this year's budget is truly focused on the people, covering all aspects, including race and background, ensuring everyone benefits from Budget 2026.
Earlier, the Prime Minister tabled Budget 2026, themed Fourth MADANI Budget: A Budget for the People, with aims to consolidate and optimize national resources. The budget involves a total public expenditure of RM470 billion, comprising RM338.2 billion in federal operating expenditure and RM81 billion in federal development expenditure, alongside investments from government-linked investment companies, public-private partnerships, and federal statutory bodies.
Teresa Kok (PH-Seputeh) noted the governance-related announcements that demonstrate the government's commitment to institutional reforms, including new laws and efforts to boost tax collection and strengthen enforcement agencies like the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and the Royal Malaysia Police. She also pointed out the allocation of RM220 million for Parliament, with RM5 million specifically earmarked to strengthen select committees, and new legislation to separate the roles of the Attorney General and the Public Prosecutor.
Meanwhile, Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man (PN-Kubang Kerian) commented on the proposed carbon tax intended to hold industries accountable for their emissions. He stressed the need to assess the tax rate's impact on investors and the energy sector while also considering other sectors like palm oil mills.
Datuk Awang Hashim (PN-Pendang) addressed the implementation of the National Higher Education Fund Corporation loan repayment exemption for B40 students who complete their first-degree studies. He called for further clarification to prevent confusion regarding the mechanism and eligibility requirements of this initiative.