23-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Zahid calls for equal economic opportunities across Malaysia's Bumiputera communities
PUTRAJAYA: Economic opportunities for the Bumiputera community in Sabah and Sarawak must be equal to those in Peninsular Malaysia.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the Bumiputera in both states are entitled to receive the same economic development benefits as those provided in Peninsular Malaysia.
"I believe Sabah requires very thorough attention from us. (And) although Sarawak has taken several proactive steps, there is still significant room for improvement.
"As such, we must equalise the economic opportunities there," he said in his closing speech at the One-Year Retreat Session following the 2024 Bumiputera Economic Congress.
Zahid, who is also rural and regional development minister, added that the federal government will ensure the Sabah Bumiputera Council receives support to implement its related agenda.
"We are here to assist so that the agenda to be implemented by the Sabah Bumiputera Council can be realised.
"I personally promise to help carry out the Bumiputera agenda in Sabah.
"It is not just about giving opportunities, but about creating more chances for the Sabah Bumiputera to succeed," he said.
Zahid also said the Bumiputera economic agenda should be pursued without hesitation as it is enshrined in the Federal Constitution as a right of the group concerned.
"This is an important principle, and we should not feel guilty when advocating for this agenda.
