Anwar rules out new Bumiputera agencies calling for whole-of-government approach

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has ruled out the creation of new Bumiputera development agencies, saying the government will instead focus on strengthening existing institutions and ensuring all ministries, agencies and government-linked companies work together to advance the national Bumiputera agenda.

Speaking at the launch of SParK 2026: Transformasi Niaga in Putrajaya on Saturday, Anwar said responsibility for Bumiputera development should not rest solely with agencies established specifically for that purpose but must be shared across the entire public sector and corporate ecosystem.

He stressed that development programmes should be coordinated to avoid duplication and ensure agencies complement one another rather than operating independently.

“That is why I am not inclined to establish new Bumiputera agencies. Instead, I want to strengthen the existing agencies. The programmes of these agencies, other departments and ministries must all be properly coordinated.

“Recently, I convened the management of all government-linked companies, including government-linked investment companies (GLICs), as well as agencies dedicated to Bumiputera development such as Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Bhd (PUNB), MARA and others.

“There are also major organisations such as Maybank and Petronas. I reminded them that Bumiputera development is not solely the responsibility of Bumiputera agencies, but a national agenda,” he said.

Earlier, Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, said Johor requires leaders and elected representatives capable of setting clear priorities, making courageous decisions and understanding the needs of the people.

He said Pakatan Harapan would continue championing the interests of Johor and its people while pursuing the coalition’s “Johor Ke Depan” (Johor Moving Forward) vision for the state's future.

“God willing, HARAPAN will continue to carry the voice of the people, defend Johor’s interests and elevate Johor into a more advanced and prosperous state for everyone,” he said in a Facebook post. - July 4, 2026