2027 budget’s success hinges on incomes and jobs, says Samsuri

The 2027 budget's success will be determined by its ability to increase incomes, create quality jobs, and reduce living costs, according to Perikatan Nasional chairman Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar. The RM459.8 billion budget features substantial spending commitments, with RM376.8 billion allocated to operational expenditures and RM83 billion for development expenditures.

Debt servicing costs have risen to RM61 billion, highlighting the need for improved fiscal discipline and spending efficiency to ensure the nation's long-term financial stability.

Samsuri also praised government-linked investments and public-private partnerships, totaling an additional RM50.2 billion, but stressed the importance of closely monitoring these investments to ensure transparent financial evaluation. He welcomed the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rakyat (SARA) assistance, as well as measures to boost workers' incomes.

STR recipients will receive up to RM150 per month, or RM1,800 annually, in 2027, following the increase in the overall allocation to RM16 billion from RM15 billion. The minimum wage will rise from RM1,700 to RM2,000 per month starting June 2027, benefiting over four million workers in Malaysia.