DENGKIL: Approval processes and bureaucratic procedures at local authority levels are to be expedited and streamlined to further improve Malaysia’s global competitiveness, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said differences in procedures between municipal councils and city councils have resulted in lengthy approval processes for projects, driving up costs for applicants.
“These (regulations and procedures) sometimes differ and do not ensure efficiency or speed in implementation,” he told reporters after performing Friday prayers at the Jameatus Solehah Mosque here.
The Prime Minister said he has directed the Housing and Local Government Ministry and Chief Secretary to the Government to strengthen oversight of local authorities to ensure processes are carried out more efficiently and effectively.
He also said several new measures would be introduced to speed up approval processes and administrative procedures at local authority levels in line with the Federal Government’s objectives, Bernama reported.
Pointing to Malaysia’s rise to 15th place in the World Competitiveness Ranking (WCR) 2026, Anwar said this was proof of the country’s strengthening economic performance.
He said the achievement was the result of the collective effort of the Cabinet, the public service and the private sector in working together to advance the nation.
“This means our standing relative to the world’s economies has improved. It also means the government, the people, private sector, farmers and fishermen must continue to step up our efforts.
“We must not become complacent. Everyone should think about ways and means to make further improvements,” he said.
According to the WCR report, Malaysia climbed eight places to 15th among 70 global economies, with an overall score of 81.91 points, returning the country to the top 20 most competitive economies in the world.
Among Asia-Pacific economies, Malaysia ranked fifth behind Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and China, while outperforming Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan.
