PETALING JAYA: The year 2026 marks the implementation of the government’s reform and development agenda, with its effects already being felt by households, businesses, and the economy, said Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
He said the momentum is underpinned by the beginning of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which sets the direction for a more resilient, high-value, and inclusive future.
"Last year was a year of design and commitment, where we clarified direction, re-centred policy around rakyat-first outcomes, and anchored ‘Ekonomi MADANI’ as a governing philosophy,” he said in his keynote address at the annual property developer conference, "The CEO Series 2026”, organised by REHDA Institute here today.
The minister said the government’s role is as an enabler, to provide fiscal stability, strategic initiatives like Government-Linked Enterprises Activation and Reform Programme (GEAR-uP), and the infrastructure that allows enterprises to flourish.
"Many of you are already navigating the new economy, pivoting towards recurring income, wellness districts, and data-centre landbanks while managing a more complex global landscape.
"In this environment, the government’s responsibility is to provide steadfast stability and clarity, so that long-term commitment decisions can be made with confidence,” he said.
Amir Hamzah said that through the GEAR-uP initiative, the government is working with government-linked investment companies to mobilise RM120 billion in domestic investment over the next five years.
He emphasised that the government’s intention is clear: to ensure national capital serves national interest, deployed catalytically to anchor the high-growth and high-value industries that will define the country’s future.
"We want investment to be anchored here, in our own soil, creating value that remains a lasting benefit to the Malaysian people.
"We are not seeking capital that merely visits, we seek capital that builds, stays and endures,” said Amir Hamzah.
He highlighted that as the country embarks on Visit Malaysia Year 2026, with an ambitious target of 47 million visitors and RM329 billion in tourism revenue, it reflects the scale of opportunity for jobs, small and medium enterprises, as well as local communities across Malaysia.
"For the property and hospitality sectors, this is an opportunity that we should view through the lens of the experience economy.
"Visit Malaysia Year 2026 is not only about welcoming more visitors, but it is about welcoming them better. Through thoughtful design, service excellence, and care, we will present the very best of Malaysia,” said Amir Hamzah. - Bernama
