{
  "id": 12386704,
  "title": "Amir Hamzah: Govt decisions can change 3.4 million lives",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/amir-hamzah-govt-decisions-can-change-3-4-million-lives",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-06T13:36:16.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/10/1549232/amir-hamzah-govt-decisions-can-change-34-million-lives"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan emphasized the far-reaching impact of government decisions, stating that even a 10% influence over the population can transform the lives of 3.4 million Malaysians. Speaking at the Khazanah Megatrends Forum, Hamzah stressed the importance of considering the lasting consequences of policymakers' choices, beyond merely the numerical impact. He cautioned against impulsive decision-making, urging a thorough analysis of the processes involved. Hamzah highlighted the significance of the Fiscal Responsibility Act in maintaining a robust fiscal position for the government, preventing future borrowing from future generations. He also underscored the need to preserve wealth generated from depleting resources like oil and gas, suggesting these funds could be allocated to critical areas such as education, skills development, and healthcare. Ultimately, Hamzah aimed for the betterment of people's lives, whether it be his own, his children's, or his grandchildren's.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: Government decisions affecting “only 10 per cent” of the population can change 3.4 million lives, Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said.",
  "key_points": [
    "Government decisions can impact 3.4 million Malaysians",
    "Amir Hamzah stresses long-term consequences of policies",
    "Fiscal Responsibility Act aims to prevent future borrowing"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Free Malaysia Today",
        "title": "Clarity vital to ensure acceptance of ‘tough’ policies, says Amir Hamzah",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/clarity-vital-to-ensure-acceptance-of-tough-policies-says-amir-hamzah",
        "published": "2026-10-06T12:18:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}