Malaysia to focus on job and income recovery in 2022 budget

Finance minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz revealed this at a virtual session of the country’s 2022 budget consultation. 

The budget will also specifically look at structural reforms such as tax incentives, and forging closer collaboration with civil society organisations (CSOs) as the government’s delivery partner to achieve goals set out in the national recovery plan for next year.  These plans are in line with the government’s long-term 12^th Malaysia Plan and the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030. 

“The government remains committed to helping those in need, particularly the rakyat (people) who are still affected by the COVID-19 crisis. We would be keen to hear how we can reach out to segments of society in ways that are more effective, innovative and more customised to the specific needs of communities,” the minister said in a statement. 

The dialogue session was held between the finance minister and representatives of CSOs and social enterprises to outline key budget recommendations to strengthen the delivery of social assistance programmes. The session was organised by Yayasan Hasanah – a foundation under Khazanah Nasional Bhd. 

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Yayasan Hasanah said the past 18 months have shown the crucial role grassroots organisations such as social enterprises, NGOs and CSOs play, complementing government efforts to provide social assistance in a timely and expedient manner, according to Free Malaysia Today.