Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has laid out the comprehensive 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) for the period 2026-2030. The plan, themed 'Melakar Semua Pembangunan' (Redesigning Development), was tabled in Parliament with a focus on good governance, economic resilience, and inclusive development to enhance the quality of life for Malaysians.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the 13MP emphasizes strengthening governance through integrity, accountability, and improving public service efficiency. The government aims to bolster economic resilience by targeting a GDP growth of 4.5 to 5.5 per cent annually, driven by private consumption and investment. Investments amounting to RM611 billion are necessary for the plan's success, with significant allocations to the education (RM67 billion) and health sectors (RM40 billion).
In governance, the plan includes legal and institutional reforms, enhancing monitoring mechanisms, and launching the Government Service Efficiency Commitment Act 2025. Technological advancements are prioritized with the introduction of MyDigital ID and improvements to the judicial system through GovTech. By 2030, 95 per cent of Federal Government services aim to be fully online, with Malaysia striving for a top 20 position in the UN's Online Service Index.
The economic strategy highlights Malaysia's ambition to lead Southeast Asia in AI, digital technology, and renewable energy. The National AI Action Plan 2030 will drive talent development and technology commercialization, while 98 per cent 5G coverage is targeted by 2030. The plan also includes expanding green energy initiatives, considering nuclear energy, and constructing waste-to-energy plants in collaboration with the private sector.
For infrastructure, the plan involves large-scale projects to enhance regional connectivity, including 2,800 km of rural road development and improvements in public transport services with new buses and trains. Sabah and Sarawak are positioned as sustainable energy hubs, while the east coast states will become an integrated food production hub.
The education sector will see the construction of new schools and a push towards compulsory preschool education from age five. The government pledges to enhance the quality of education through improved Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) outcomes and align with international assessment benchmarks. A National Education Council is to be established for better coordination.
Socially, the government plans to build one million affordable housing units and expand schemes like the Rent-to-Own (RTO) to increase home ownership. Pro-health taxes will be extended, and RM40 billion is allocated to the health sector for upgrading healthcare facilities. Disaster risk management and climate action measures, including the National Climate Change Bill, are also prioritized.
The plan emphasizes an inclusive approach with initiatives for various communities, including the Bumiputera, Orang Asli, and Indian communities, alongside enhancing women's labor force participation to 60 per cent. The government also aims to create 1.2 million jobs in manufacturing and the digital economy, supported by TVET program expansions.
Overall, the 13MP is structured to ensure Malaysia's progression towards becoming a high-income nation and a top 30 global economy by 2030, with a focused approach on sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced growth.