Kuala lumpur: The government's decision to amend the Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) Act 1966 should not be viewed negatively, as the move is intended to strengthen the institution, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid, who is also Minister of Rural and Regional Development, stated that the amendment to the Act has been agreed upon by MARA council members to ensure the institution remains aligned with its founding objectives while also enhancing its governance.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid emphasized that MARA, established through the 1965 Bumiputera Economic Congress, requires a robust legal foundation to guarantee the continuity of its functions. He noted that the amendments are designed to ensure MARA's governance remains consistent, regardless of any changes in leadership or government. "This Act is being amended so that we return to the original foundation, and so that MARA's governance does not go off course when the director-general changes, when the chairman changes, when the supervising minister changes or even, most regrettably, when the government changes," he stated.
He further explained that the amendment is intended to ensure the Act serves not just as a guideline but as a binding framework. Ahmad Zahid stressed that MARA's origins, dating back to its establishment as the Rural and Industrial Development Authority (RIDA), must remain steadfast despite any changes in leadership. He also mentioned that any negative or differing interpretations of the amendments should be avoided, as the true intent has been decided by MARA itself through a resolution passed by its council members.
Additionally, Ahmad Zahid confirmed that he would present the draft amendment to the Cabinet within two weeks. He has already chaired meetings with council members, senior officers, and a panel of lawyers to review the details. On May 3, Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim directed that the draft amendment be completed and submitted to him within three months, coinciding with MARA's 60th anniversary celebration.