Economy Ministry: 13MP amendments deliberate, not sudden

New Straits Times

2 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: Amendments to the draft of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) were not sudden, but a deliberate effort to align it with the Madani Economy framework, the Economy Ministry said.
In a written parliamentary reply, the ministry said the changes were to ensure the five-year development plan reflected the government's goals in a comprehensive and inclusive manner.
"These changes are not abrupt or reactive, but rather to ensure the 13MP is fully aligned with the aspirations of the Madani Economy, which is the main framework of national development," the ministry said.
The ministry was responding to a question from Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee, the member of parliament for Beluran, who had questioned whether drastic policy changes had necessitated last-minute amendments to the 13MP.
The ministry added that the blueprint was prepared based on extensive engagement sessions with relevant stakeholders that started in October 2024.
The sessions involved ministries, federal departments and agencies, state governments, academics, industry players, non-governmental organisations and civil society organisations, it said.
The restructuring and alignment process ensured all feedback and recommendations were integrated into the document in line with the government's core policies, the ministry said.
"This is to ensure that the 13MP remains accurate, thoroughly planned, and can be implemented effectively and immediately by the ministries and implementing agencies after the tabling on July 31."
On June 27, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar announced that Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan would assume the duties and functions of the economy minister with immediate effect following the resignation of Rafizi Ramli.
Amir Hamzah's primary responsibility is to revise and reformulate the contents of the 13MP, taking into account additional input submitted by ministries and views from the cabinet.