Budget will ensure continued growth, putting people ‘at the centre’, says Khazanah

Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Malaysia's sovereign wealth fund, has stated that the 2027 budget will ensure ongoing economic growth and competitiveness while placing people at the forefront of government efforts. Managing Director Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir emphasized that the budget remains inclusive, acknowledging the need to benefit all segments of society, including workers, youth, entrepreneurs, Bumiputera companies, MSMEs, and communities facing economic and climate challenges.

Amirul highlighted that the budget comes at a critical time for Malaysia, as the nation grapples with global volatility, including geopolitical uncertainty, supply chain pressures, and rising fuel prices due to the conflict in the West Asia region. He stressed that the budget's focus is on quality growth, rather than just quantity, with strategic sectors like semiconductors, energy transition, infrastructure, enterprise development, and talent development taking center stage.

These priorities are crucial for strengthening Malaysia's industrial base, enhancing economic complexity, and creating higher-value opportunities for businesses and workers. Amirul also mentioned that Khazanah's Dana Warisan investments under the Warisan KL initiative are vital and have been demonstrated through ongoing restoration projects at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad Complex and Carcosa.

Khazanah has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the Penang and Selangor state governments to bolster Malaysia's semiconductor and advanced manufacturing ecosystem and support the growth of high-potential Malaysian firms. The budget further emphasizes vendor growth, innovation, and market expansion, with the Dana Ciptawan program being increased to RM250 million in partnership with Teraju, a Bumiputera agenda steering unit. This increased funding aims to support the growth of Bumiputera and Malaysian mid-tier companies.