{
  "id": 13396769,
  "title": "2027 Budget balances cost-of-living relief with future growth",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/10/2027-budget-balances-cost-of-living-relief-with-future-growth",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-10-10T11:15:11.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/10/1552460/2027-budget-balances-cost-living-relief-future-growth"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The 2027 Budget in Malaysia strives to meet the needs of Malaysians grappling with increasing living costs while also paving the way for the nation's future economic growth, according to Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Yusof Apdal. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim affirmed the budget's balanced approach, acknowledging the necessity to assist citizens in overcoming the escalating cost of living brought about by global circumstances. Speaking at a Kupi-Kupi Bah session in Kota Kinabalu, Yusof highlighted the budget's dual focus on supporting Malaysia's transformation into a high-technology nation and ensuring these advancements reach the populace.\n\nFor Sabah, the federal allocation for 2027 saw an increase from RM17.6 billion in 2026 to RM18.7 billion, a positive development that Yusof expressed optimism about. He hoped the additional funds would prove beneficial, particularly to those confronting various challenges. Earlier, Yusof appealed to the media to educate the public about the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loan facilities announced in the 2027 budget. He encouraged students in Sabah to consider the PTPTN loan as an option for pursuing university education, emphasizing the importance of utilizing these loans and exploring scholarships if available. Additionally, Yusof noted that PTPTN borrowers would have more flexibility, with repayments commencing when their salaries reach RM2,500, with a minimum monthly payment of RM50.",
  "summary": "KOTA KINABALU: The 2027 Budget strikes a balance between helping Malaysians cope with the rising cost of living and planning for the country’s future economic growth, says Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Yusof Apdal.",
  "key_points": [
    "2027 Malaysian budget balances cost-of-living relief with future growth",
    "Sabah receives RM18.7 billion federal allocation for 2027, up from RM17.6 billion",
    "PTPTN loan flexibility starts at RM2,500 monthly salary"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "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."
}