BUDGET 2026 signals a renewed and strategic commitment by the Malaysian government to combat corruption through an inclusive, systemic approach, says the Secretary-General of the Malaysian Halal Economy and Ummah Entrepreneurship Council (MEH), Dr Helmi Ibrahim.
Helmi praised the government’s move to introduce a 10% tax deduction for private companies contributing to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that conduct anti-corruption campaigns and initiatives.
“This tax incentive shows that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is not merely making political statements, but is genuinely renewing his commitment to make Malaysia a corruption-free nation,” Sinar Harian reported him saying.
Dr Helmi, who is also a committee member of Rasuah Busters, described the incentive as a “significant policy innovation” by the unity government, reinforcing civil society while fostering a collaborative ecosystem between the government, private sector, and NGOs in tackling corruption.
He added that MEH, which has long spearheaded the ‘Sedar Halal Banteras Rasuah’ campaign, welcomes the recognition of civil society’s vital role in rooting out corruption from the grassroots level.
During the tabling of Budget 2026 on Friday, Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, announced that anti-corruption programmes organised by civil society groups and recognised by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) would be classified as projects of national interest. Donations made to such efforts would therefore be eligible for tax deductions.
In addition to these initiatives, income tax reliefs will also be extended to individuals and corporations contributing to other community development efforts such as the *Kampung Angkat Madani* and *Sekolah Angkat Madani* programmes.
“These are not merely symbolic gestures,” said Helmi. “They send a strong message that the war against corruption is far from over. It must be fought from all levels—top-down and bottom-up.”
He warned that corruption remains a critical issue, especially within enforcement agencies and the public service, and called for a principled, consistent national movement to address the problem.
“Failure to confront corruption not only tarnishes the integrity of public institutions, but also threatens the structural foundations of national development,” he stressed.
Describing Budget 2026 as more than just a financial blueprint, Helmi said it must be seen as a strategic vehicle to unite government, business, and civil society under a shared vision of a cleaner, more ethical Malaysia.
MEH, he added, is ready to work closely with various agencies and NGOs to ensure that allocated funds and tax incentives reach impactful programmes that benefit the wider community. - October11, 2025
