Kuala lumpur: Budget 2026 will continue to provide socioeconomic assistance to protect high-risk groups affected by the cost of living pressure. The Ministry of Finance (MOF) in its Pre-Budget 2026 statement said the assistance aims to provide income support so that all levels of society can enjoy a dignified and prosperous life, in addition to the people being able to obtain basic needs, especially food and essential goods, in addition to strengthening the security of the country’s food supply.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the government will strive to reduce errors in targeting, whether inappropriate participation or inappropriate exclusions, to ensure that assistance is accurately directed to those in need. MOF emphasized the shift from blanket subsidies to targeted subsidies to eliminate leakage, enhance fiscal efficiency, and ensure that public resources are distributed to the needy, ensuring that the majority of the people continue to receive benefits.
The improvements are expected to create a robust social protection system, aligning with current needs through the use of data and automation to deliver support more accurately and swiftly. MOF announced that Budget 2026 will also continue efforts to bridge the development gap between urban and rural areas, focusing on modernizing regional development including remote and underserved areas in Sabah and Sarawak.
Key investments will target basic infrastructure and utilities such as roads, treated water, electricity, sewerage systems, and high-speed internet, which are essential for the well-being of the people and increased social mobility. Meanwhile, Budget 2026 will empower all groups to participate in the country’s growing economy through a target group empowerment strategy.
This includes initiatives to expand Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, support for social enterprises, access to financing and digital platforms for youth, as well as investments in childcare infrastructure, flexible working arrangements, skills development programs, and entrepreneurship for women. Additional focus is given to strengthening social protection, geriatric and housing care, as well as sustainable financing of temporary elderly care for the disabled (OKU), interventions involving inclusive education access, barrier-free public infrastructure, digital services, and an inclusive employment framework.
The Orang Asli and Pribumi communities will be supported through community-based economic development and improvements in education and health, while initiatives for Bumiputera include the 3P strategy, namely broad participation, meaningful ownership, and control in strategic sectors.