FORMER Minister of Economy Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has extended his appreciation to the civil servants at the Ministry of Economy for ensuring that the core policies and reforms developed during his time in office have been preserved in the recently tabled 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13).
“Although I’ve not yet reviewed every word, from the executive summary alone I can say that almost 95 per cent of what was developed throughout the process—right up until I stepped down—remains in RMK13,” said Rafizi.
He noted that key reform pillars such as education restructuring, economic transformation, and preparation for an ageing society had all been retained. The Plan, he added, also preserves a suite of strategic frameworks introduced under his watch.
“These include the New Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), KL20, the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ), ‘Made by Malaysia’, our pivot to a consumption-driven economy, and CCUS,” he said. “Even policies not previously announced, like the Special Tourism Investment Zones (STIZ), have been carried forward.”
Rafizi also welcomed the formal inclusion of policies that had previously faced strong opposition—such as ILTIZAM, the proposed ‘anti-red tape’ legislation, and the forthcoming law banning the Ali Baba business practice.
“These were heavily contested at the time, but I’m grateful they are now embedded in the national plan,” he remarked.
He confirmed plans to study the full document in detail over the coming week and to offer public commentary in stages, focusing on sectoral themes throughout August.
“I’m expected to join the RMK13 debate in Parliament next Monday or Tuesday. Then on Friday, 8 August, I’ll be discussing it further on my podcast with Dr Muhammad Khalid,” he said.
Reflecting on his tenure, Rafizi described the formulation of RMK13 as a substantial undertaking that began in November 2022.
“It was a major responsibility—to craft a vision for a better future for all Malaysians. I wish to thank and congratulate everyone at the Ministry of Economy, from the Secretary-General and Deputy Secretaries-General to the RMK13 team and support staff. They worked relentlessly for 20 months.”
He acknowledged that the final weeks were especially challenging due to speculation of a Cabinet reshuffle.
“Thankfully, those were just political ripples. What matters is that the leadership at the Ministry ensured long-term national planning was not derailed by the noise of politics.”
Rafizi closed his remarks with a call to stay focused on delivery.
“One task is complete, but another begins. We must now ensure the Plan is implemented effectively—regardless of who holds office. May the rakyat be the true beneficiaries in the years to come.” - July 31, 2025
