LUMUT: Budget 2027 is expected to place particular emphasis on efforts to address socioeconomic issues, including the welfare of the middle-income (M40) and lower-income groups, according to an aide of the Finance Minister.
Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, who is political secretary to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, said the focus on both groups was necessary as they are among those most affected by economic pressures and current cost-of-living challenges.
"The Budget to be announced by the Prime Minister will be another more inclusive Budget, one that is closer to the people and can, to some extent, resolve several problems and issues that have arisen.
"For now, the parties involved are still conducting direct engagement sessions with all stakeholders to finalise the Budget," he said.
He said this when met after officiating the National Khatam Keris Traditional Ceremony organised by the Perak branch of the Persatuan Silat Seni Gayong Malaysia and the Silat Anak-Anak Gayong Perak Gathering at Teluk Batik Campsite here on Sunday (Sept 6).
Anwar, who is Prime Minister and Finance Minister, is scheduled to table Budget 2027 in the Dewan Rakyat on Oct 9.
Muhammad Kamil said existing initiatives such as the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) would continue to be strengthened to ease the financial burden on households.
"Assistance programmes such as STR and SARA will continue, and we await further announcements by the Finance Minister," he said.
Muhammad Kamil said consideration was also being given to proposals to improve existing initiatives and introduce other forms of financial support to ease the burden on middle-income households.
"The government's priorities also remain focused on ensuring that political and economic stability remains strong to guarantee the smooth implementation of national policies," he said. – Bernama
