KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 9 (Bernama) -- The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) has described the cash assistance and targeted subsidies under Budget 2027 as crucial to easing household burdens.
Its chief executive officer, Dr T. Saravanan, said this is particularly vital for the B40 group, lower-income M40 households, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (OKU), and families with many dependants.
"FOMCA welcomes the continuation of Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA), RAHMAH Sales, and Agro MADANI, as well as measures to expand access to basic necessities," he said in a statement today.
He said FOMCA also supports raising the minimum wage to RM2,000 from RM1,700 a month starting June 2027, alongside expanded individual tax relief, which will boost workers' purchasing power to help cope with rising living costs.
He added that the continuation of the My50 affordable travel pass, additional trains, rail infrastructure restoration, and improved bus services will reduce household expenses, particularly on petrol, tolls, parking, and vehicle maintenance.
Saravanan also welcomed allocations to boost local food production, support farmers and fishermen, and strengthen the food supply chain.
"Malaysia needs to reduce over-reliance on food imports, especially basic items that can be sustainably produced locally. However, increased production must lead to stable supply and more affordable prices for consumers," he said.
He said higher assistance for OKU, carers of bedridden patients, and special needs students is a positive step that must be accompanied by accessible healthcare, education, transport, and disability-friendly public amenities.
Overall, FOMCA welcomed Budget 2027 as a budget that addresses the people's needs with the potential to reduce cost-of-living pressures next year.
"FOMCA believes the success of Budget 2027 lies not in large allocations, but in how far the public gets to feel the enhanced purchasing power, reduced financial burdens, access to quality services, and better protection of consumer rights," he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim tabled Budget 2027, themed "Reaching for the Skies, While Anchored on Our Values”, in the Dewan Rakyat today.
-- BERNAMA