KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 9 (Bernama) -- The 2027 Budget strengthens the state development agenda through billions of ringgit in allocations, strategic investments and the implementation of high-impact infrastructure projects to stimulate economic growth and improve the people's well-being.
The announcements were welcomed by state governments, which viewed the various initiatives outlined as positive steps towards strengthening socioeconomic development, creating job opportunities and improving the people's quality of life.
In Sabah, the increase in the Federal Government's allocation to RM18.6 billion for next year, from RM17.6 billion this year, reflects the government's continued commitment to ensuring balanced and comprehensive development in the state.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor described the fifth MADANI Budget as a comprehensive financial document capable of easing the people's financial burden through various initiatives, including tax reductions and incentives for civil servants, business operators and various segments of society.
“It also demonstrates the strength of our economy and the country's financial position, despite the impact of the ongoing crisis in West Asia,” he said after watching the live broadcast of the 2027 Budget presentation by the Prime Minister, at Menara Kinabalu today.
Meanwhile, Selangor is also set to benefit from the 2027 Budget through high-value strategic investments, including an allocation of RM1.25 billion for the development of data centres and logistics assets in Elmina, as well as cooperation between Khazanah Nasional Bhd and the state government in the semiconductor industry.
Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the initiatives had significant potential to create high-skilled job opportunities, which could increase incomes and enhance the competitiveness of the state's people through skills training, digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI).
Apart from its focus on high-technology sectors, he said the budget also prioritised Selangor's well-being and basic infrastructure through an allocation of RM100 million to address flash flood issues in the Klang Valley, as well as the construction of the Bandar Serenia School Complex in Sepang.
“Thank you to PMX for the initiatives that benefit Selangor. God willing, Gombak will actively participate in the debate on the 2027 MADANI Budget to voice the concerns and needs of the people.
“May all allocations be implemented efficiently, transparently and in a targeted manner for a better quality of life,” he said in a Facebook post.
In Melaka, five specific projects announced under the 2027 Budget are expected to strengthen human capital development, housing facilities, security and the well-being of the state's people.
Melaka State Secretary Datuk Salhah Salleh said the projects comprised the Melaka Centre of Excellence, river rehabilitation and the Sungai Rambai Flood Mitigation Plan, a people's housing project in Paya Rumput, the construction of the PERMATA Kurnia Centre, and a new police station in Sungai Rambai.
“The state government expresses its appreciation and gratitude to the Federal Government for announcing various allocations and development initiatives that directly benefit the people's well-being and the state's socioeconomic development,” she said in a statement today.
Salhah said the state government also took note of various national initiatives, including assistance for low-income groups, stronger social protection, improvements to educational facilities and support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
“These initiatives are also in line with the state government's efforts under Melaka Sayang Rakyat to strengthen workers' welfare and community well-being.
“The state government, through the relevant departments and agencies, will review and coordinate follow-up action on the 2027 Budget announcements, particularly those involving the implementation of projects and development initiatives in Melaka, in accordance with the mechanisms and requirements determined by the Federal Government,” she said.
-- BERNAMA