TAMPIN, July 30 (Bernama) -- The policy of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) in safeguarding and protecting Bumiputera interests must remain intact regardless of changes in the country's political leadership, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today.
He said MARA's policies should not be altered arbitrarily whenever there is a change of government.
“When the MARA chairman changes, the policies change. When the minister responsible for Bumiputera affairs changes, the MARA policies change. We do not want that.
“Regardless of which government is in power, which minister oversees MARA under his ministry, or who serves as MARA chairman, MARA's policies must continue to safeguard the interests of the Bumiputera,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid said this during a community engagement session at the Gemencheh Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM) here.
Also present were MARA chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki and Community Development Department (KEMAS) director-general Datuk Mohd Hanafiah Man.
Ahmad Zahid said amendments to the MARA Act 1966 were therefore necessary to ensure Bumiputera interests continue to be protected.
“We cannot continue relying on an outdated Act. We must improve it, refine it, amend it and strengthen it.
“I have informed Dr Asyraf that we will table the amendments to the MARA Act 1966 in the Dewan Rakyat at the end of this year, and we expect to secure approval within two months,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid also urged parents to encourage their children living outside Negeri Sembilan to return home to fulfil their civic duty by voting in Saturday's state election.
“Ladies and gentlemen, make full use of these 24 hours. Tell your children and relatives wherever they are to come home and vote,” he said.
For the latest updates on the state election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/n9.
-- BERNAMA