Govt committed to strengthening Bumiputera agenda, says PM

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is committed to strengthening the Bumiputera agenda with the intention of providing just, equitable and inclusive socio-economic development in line with the spirit of the Malaysian Family, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The Prime Minister said while tabling the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) that the Bumiputera agenda will not be ignored, as enshrined in Article 153 of the Federal Constitution that preserves the rights and privileges of the Malays and natives - namely the natives of Sabah and Sarawak - as well as the interests of other races.

"The government's intention is to achieve a more just, equitable and inclusive socio-economic development in line with the spirit of the Malaysian Family," he said in Parliament on Monday (Sept 27).

Ismail Sabri said the Malaysian Family consists of Bumiputra, Orang Asli, Anak Negeri Sabah that has 42 ethnic groups and more than 200 sub-ethnic groups including Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, Rungus and Bajau.

There are also those who are categorised as Bumiputera Sarawak, comprising 27 ethnic groups including, Iban, Mulu, Melanau, Bidayuh as well as Chinese, Indian and others, he said.

Ismail Sabri said the government was aware that a large number of Bumiputera was still categorised as low-income and relatively poorer as compared to the other ethnic groups.

He added that members of low-income family members as well as special groups, and vulnerable groups regardless of race, who need protection and guidance, will be given attention.

"This agenda will be implemented at all levels of policy to ensure that it becomes a main component and aspect of development.

All parties, including the government, government-linked companies (GLCs) and government-linked investment companies and the private sector will work together to advance this agenda," said Ismail Sabri.

To increase Bumiputera participation in economic activities, access to and opportunities for education as well as human capital development will also be strengthened, he said.