13MP must ensure effective execution to narrow rural-urban gap, says expert

New Straits Times

6 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan's (13MP) emphasis on rural development and affordable housing is a step in the right direction to address the socio-economic gap between urban and rural areas, an expert said.
Universiti Teknologi Mara's Malaysian Academy of SME and Entrepreneurship Development coordinator Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said the plan's focus on basic infrastructure such as roads, water supply, electricity, and digitalisation initiatives could stimulate economic growth in rural regions.
"This focus is timely and much needed to balance development between urban and rural areas.
"However, the success of these initiatives will depend on transparent and effective implementation, as projects of this nature have often faced issues such as cost overruns or delays," he told the New Straits Times.
Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government would improve basic infrastructure and stimulate the economy in rural areas and development zones under the 13MP.
He said that strategic investments in these areas would be encouraged in an effort to narrowing development gaps between regions to ensure that rural communities benefit equitably as the country develops.
On the government's target of building 500,000 affordable homes by 2030, Idham said while it was a commendable goal, lessons must be learned from previous programmes such as Perbadanan PR1MA Malaysia (PR1MA).
"The quantity of homes matters, but location and quality are equally critical. If houses are built in remote areas without adequate transport links and social amenities, demand may remain low.
"The government must ensure these projects are planned holistically, with access to jobs, education, and healthcare services."
Idham said that several aspects required close attention to ensure 13MP delivers its intended outcomes.
"Firstly, strict monitoring mechanisms are needed to ensure projects achieve their targets without wastage.
"Secondly, collaboration between federal and state governments must be strengthened to avoid bureaucratic hurdles.
"Thirdly, private sector participation through incentives can accelerate development.
"Finally, skill training programmes for rural communities must be intensified so that economic growth can be shared inclusively," he said.
He added that while 13MP carried good policies, its true impact would hinge on how well it was executed.
"If implemented properly, RMK-13 has the potential to reduce inequality and raise living standards. But without efficient execution and strong accountability, it risks becoming yet another plan that fails to meet expectations," he said.