Malaysians have expressed elation over the latest budget. In addition to job opportunities, cash aids, social assistance and discounts, they hope that the implementation will be smooth-sailing and consistent. Here are some of the excerpts of what they told The Star.
I am looking forward to the 50% toll discount in conjunction with the Deepavali celebrations, as my daughter lives in Seremban and we will be heading over to celebrate with her.
A. Paramanthan, 65 ”, a retired engineer from Perai, Penang
I am pleased with the RM100 Sumbangan Asas Rahmah cash aid. Even though it’s not much, every bit helps. It can go toward groceries or utility bills.
Nathania Mosinoh, 26, self-employed from Tuaran, Sabah
The ‘Second Chance’ programme for former female prisoners stands out the most. By equipping them with capital, training and platforms to run businesses, the programme restores their dignity and reduces the risk of them falling back into crime or poverty.
Nur Syaheera Zaifuddin, 31, a lecturer from Alor Setar, Kedah
The incentives aimed at upskilling youths and the focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training are very important, especially for youths like me who are looking for employment. One of the main reasons fresh graduates struggle to secure jobs is the lack of work experience. It’s a chicken-and-egg situation.
Maahirah Aliyyah Ali, 21, a fresh graduate from Johor Baru, Johor
Programmes like K-Youth or MARA’s Industrial Bootcamp are a good step toward preparing young people for real jobs – but only if they are implemented effectively. If the programmes give us proper hands-on training and connect us with actual industries, then yes, it can really prepare us for real jobs. The process can be especially challenging for those who simply want to start small, such as in a crop or community farming projects. If they can make the process simpler and provide more guidance to young entrepreneurs, I believe more people would actually take the chance.
Ali Imran Azan, 21, a student from Petaling Jaya, Selangor
The emphasis on basic infrastructure reflected a clear commitment to addressing long-standing issues in the state. The government’s focus is encouraging, but we’ve seen many projects delayed before. More consistent monitoring and timely execution are needed so these allocations truly reach the people.
Siti Nur Fadhilah Mohd Fajeer, 37, an entrepreneur and mother of two from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
This year’s budget clearly shows the government’s stronger commitment to developing Sabah in a more inclusive and impactful way. “If the last budget was about fixing the fundamentals, this one feels like a real leap -focusing on energy, water, education, welfare, and sustainable economic growth under the spirit of MA63. This is a more progressive step forward, marking a shift from basic repairs to more comprehensive development.
Amrullah Abdul Karim, 43,a private sector employee from Sabah
I am happy to be eligible for the RM150 Early Schooling Aid. It will come in handy as I now have to think of my child’s school needs. My other child starts kindergarten next year, and I will benefit from the extension of childcare tax relief.
Jovyn Beh, 32, a sales executive and mother of two from George Town, Penang
Regardless of the millions or billions announced each year, the majority of Sabahans simply want the basics to be delivered. As taxpayers, we just want proper roads, stable electricity, and a reliable water supply. Even in town areas, our basic needs are still not fully met.
Wendy Aaliyah Chong ”, 39, a civil servant and mother of three from Sandakan, Sabah
I am glad that the budget touched on healthcare and social assistance for older adults. This may seem like a small thing, but for people my age, medical costs are one of the biggest worries. So, anything that makes treatment more affordable or improves public healthcare is welcomed.
Collen Sigar, 55, a trader from Johor Baru, Johor
