Malaysia

Budget 2026 set to usher in new economic chapter, says Zahid

First budget under 13th Malaysia Plan aims to strengthen rural development and national security capabilities

Updated 10 months ago · Published on 10 Oct 2025 12:25PM

Budget 2026 set to usher in new economic chapter, says Zahid
The new budget would lay a stronger foundation for sustainable growth while directly improving the lives of the people — especially rural communities - October10, 2025

BUDGET 2026, to be tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim this afternoon, is expected to mark a pivotal moment in Malaysia’s economic recovery and national development under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13).

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also serves as Minister of Rural and Regional Development, said the new budget would lay a stronger foundation for sustainable growth while directly improving the lives of the people — especially rural communities.

“This budget opens a new chapter in strengthening the nation’s economy and uplifting the well-being of the people,” Zahid said in a Facebook post earlier today.

Reflecting on Budget 2025, Zahid noted that his ministry received RM11.96 billion in allocations, which were fully utilised to drive forward the Desa MADANI agenda — an initiative aimed at advancing rural empowerment, infrastructure and socio-economic development.

“Every ringgit was translated into real initiatives that empowered rural communities, strengthened the people’s economy and improved rural infrastructure,” he said, expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister and the MADANI administration for their continued support.

Zahid pledged that the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development would continue to fulfil its responsibilities with integrity and commitment, ensuring that government policies translate into tangible benefits for citizens nationwide.

He also called on Malaysians to follow the budget presentation, adding, “Let us pray that Budget 2026 continues to bring prosperity to all Malaysians, God willing.”

Budget 2026 is the fourth national budget under the MADANI government and the first under the RMK13 development blueprint, forming the basis for Malaysia’s socio-economic direction over the next five years.

A call for modern equipment and technological assets

Meanwhile, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is hoping that Budget 2026 will address the need for modern equipment and technological assets to enhance its crime-fighting capabilities.

Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the force requires tools and infrastructure that reflect the realities of modern policing.

“This need is crucial for the PDRM to strengthen its future operational readiness,” he told reporters following the Inspector Cadet Graduation Parade at the Kuala Lumpur Police Training Centre on Friday.

Mohd Khalid acknowledged the government's consistent focus on public service welfare, particularly for police personnel.

“We (civil servants) have benefited from numerous improvements, especially regarding salary scales. The government has also shown attention to operational needs, including technology and logistics such as housing,” he said.

At the ceremony, 345 cadet inspectors successfully completed their nine-month Basic Police Training Programme (PLAK).

As Budget 2026 is unveiled, expectations are high that it will further support both socio-economic progress and national security enhancement under the wider framework of the MADANI government's long-term development goals. - October10, 2025

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