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This is Part 1 of the full Budget 2022 speech. You can read Part 2 here
DATUK Speaker Sir,
I would like to propose that, a bill named "an Act to use a sum of money from the consolidated fund for services for 2022 and to allocate the sum for services for the year, is read for the second time now".
1. Bismillahirrahmanirrahim. Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh and a good day.
2. Alhamdulillah, with Your blessing, O Allah, for the abundance of blessings; we surrender to your Mercy in all our endeavours. We extend this gratitude with salawat and salam for the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam for he is a role model for mankind throughout time.
3. Datuk Speaker Sir, Honourable Members, as well as my beloved “Keluarga Malaysia”.
4. The people have great hopes for Budget 2022, a budget that is built upon our collective efforts – as one Keluarga Malaysia – to rise again and heal the nation.
5. Therefore, in the tabling of Budget 2022, Insya-Allah we hope that it will bring good tidings to everyone. Let Budget 2022 be the beacon of hope that shines at the end of the pandemic crisis, so that the rakyat can regain their prosperity in these new norms.
Economic performance and challenges in 2021 and 2022
Datuk Speaker Sir,
6. In the face of this global pandemic, countries all over the world were forced to face two arduous challenges simultaneously, between saving lives and livelihoods.
7. For Malaysia, it was evident that this year proved more challenging for us. We had initially anticipated that 2021 was to be the year of recovery; unfortunately, the recovery was delayed due to the worsening of the Covid-19 pandemic since the tabling of Budget 2021, a year ago.
8. The Covid-19 virus continued to mutate and worsen. Malaysia was not spared from the resurgence of Covid-19 with its third wave resulting in daily cases breaching over 24,000 cases. To date, the total number of cases has exceeded 2.4 million; with more than 28,000 fellow Malaysian lives lost. Here, I would like to extend my condolences to our dear family members who have lost loved ones due to this virus.
9. Malaysia has had to endure a prolonged episode of movement control order (MCO), however, we have implemented the National Recovery Plan (NRP) anchored by the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme (PICK) as the way out of this vicious pandemic.
10. Alhamdulillah, we have now managed to fully vaccinate 95% of our adult population and 62% of teenagers. Malaysia’s vaccination rate is amongst the highest in the world. As a result, Covid-19 cases have been successfully reduced while the use of ICU wards for Covid-19 have been reduced to 42%. Thus, our public health system is no longer over burdened by Covid-19.
11. The government has never ceased to care for the people and the business sector. Even during these challenging times with limited fiscal space, the government will always seek a way to aid those in need. Admittedly, this is not an easy task, but Alhamdulillah, the government has to date announced eight economic assistance and stimulus packages totalling RM530 billion, separate from the allocation provided under Budget 2021.
12. These packages have ensured that – there’s food on the table, children continue to be educated, businesses continue to operate, jobs are being created and that lives are safeguarded.
13. Through these packages, the country’s economic growth in 2020, which suffered a contraction of 5.6%, has now rebounded with a growth of 7.1% as of the first half of 2021. While the third quarter performance is expected to be slightly affected by the implementation of containment measures under MCO 3.0, growth is projected to recover in the fourth quarter, during which almost all states will have transitioned to the fourth phase under the NRP, where all economic and social sectors are allowed to operate at full capacity again.
Overall, our economic growth is expected to be between 3 to 4% for 2021, Insya-Allah.
14. Next year, the country’s economy is projected to expand between 5.5% and 6.5% based on strong fundamentals and a diversified economic base. However, this performance also depends on other factors, including the success of our pandemic response, the effectiveness of our vaccination programmes as well as the robustness of the global economy and trade prospects.
Budget 2022: Keluarga Malaysia, Makmur Sejahtera
Datuk Speaker Sir,
15. As with previous years, Budget 2022 was formulated based on the tradition of #TeamMOF openness. This budget is the outcome of a series of on-the-ground engagements across various states in Malaysia, during which over 30 focus group meetings and consultations were held along with the analysis of over 1,100 memorandums and nearly 50,000 proposals that were received through the dedicated Budget 2022 portal.
16. What’s more meaningful is that Budget 2022 was formulated after 80 engagements with political leaders, traversing political doctrines, irrespective of whether government or opposition.
Together, we discussed, exchanged views and together pondered national issues while putting our political differences aside.
17. In addition, to increase the transparency of our budget preparation, for the first time, #TeamMOF has published a pre-Budget statement and four Public Consultation Papers covering topics on improving government procurement, cash assistance, tax incentives and fiscal responsibility.
18. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to one and all, who have spent time and effort to share their ideas and views. For us at MoF, this is the evidence of our togetherness in facing the challenges ahead as one family.
19. Our focus in 2022 in on achieving a comprehensive recovery, encompassing all socioeconomic segments in the country. Efforts will also be undertaken to strengthen business resilience and the health system in order to face the challenges ahead. Moving forward, reform instruments will be activated to keep up-to-date with the landscape of a borderless world of technology while upholding the sustainability agenda.
20. With this commitment, the theme of Budget 2022 will be "Keluarga Malaysia, Makmur Sejahtera”. The budget builds upon three key pillars, namely strengthening recovery, building resilience and driving reforms. Budget 2022 has three main focus areas:
First: rakyat’s well-being;
Second: resilient businesses; and,
Third: a prosperous and sustainable economy.
21. Budget 2022 is aligned to the framework of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) and has been formulated as a continuation of the past economic assistance and stimulus packages. It is also equipped with new initiatives to deliver an inclusive, sustainable and balanced Budget 2022.
22. Taking into account the aspirations, dreams and needs of Keluarga Malaysia, and together with projected higher government revenue at RM234 billion in 2022, the government will maintain an expansionary budget.
23. Budget 2022 will be the largest budget to-date, with an allocation of RM332.1 billion. From this allocation, the government will provide RM233.5 billion for operating expenditure, RM75.6 billion for development expenditure and RM23 billion under the Covid-19 Fund. A total of RM2 billion was also provided as contingency reserve advance warrant. Even with an expansionary budget in place, the fiscal deficit is projected to reduce to 6% to GDP compared to a fiscal deficit of 6.5% to GDP in 2021.
First Focus: The Rakyat’s Well-being
Datuk Speaker Sir,
24. The first focus of Budget 2022 is the rakyat’s well-being. In embracing the essence of Keluarga Malaysia concept as espoused by Yang Amat Berhormat prime minister should inspire each and every one of us to nurture the noble values of inclusivity, togetherness and gratitude.
Strategy 1: Restoring Lives and Livelihoods
25. The first strategy under this focus is on restoring lives and livelihoods. The government’s objective under this strategy is to continue providing targeted cash assistance, enhance education and public health as well as create job opportunities.
Initiative 1: Direct Cash Assistance and Welfare
26. In the coming year, cash assistance initiative will be enhanced. The Government will introduce the Bantuan Keluarga Malaysia (BKM) cash assistance with specific enhancements to ensure that those who are really affected, will be given greater attention.
27. These improvements have taken into account suggestions received from the public via the publication of the Public Consultation Paper on improving assistance to the rakyat. For 2022, the BKM will channel assistance of RM2,000 to households earning less than RM2,500 per month with three or more children. This assistance is an increase compared to the previous Bantuan Prihatin Rakyat (BPR) where the highest assistance rate was RM1,800.
28. Furthermore, other suggestions received also touched on the challenges faced by single mothers in supporting their families; in addition to the B40 senior citizens who have insufficient retirement savings and no fixed income. As an enhancement for 2022, the government will also provide an additional assistance of RM500 to single parent households earning a monthly income of up to RM5,000. In addition, an additional assistance of RM300 will also be provided to senior citizen households. This means that a single mother or father with three or more children is eligible to receive a maximum BKM of RM2,500.
29. In total, BKM is expected to benefit more than 9.6 million recipients with an allocation of RM8.2 billion, which is an improvement compared to 8.6 million recipients and an allocation of RM7 billion under BPR.
30. In relation to the welfare assistance that is managed by the Social Welfare Department (JKM), the income eligibility requirement will be increased in line with the 2019 Food Poverty Line Income at RM1,169 compared to the 2016 Poverty Line Income of RM980. Efforts to expand the coverage of social protection is in line with the government’s continued commitment to ensure that assistance reaches the hands of those that are truly in need, taking into account the higher cost of living. Therefore, with this increase, more people will enjoy the welfare benefits from JKM resulting in an expected increase in allocation of RM200 million. In total, RM2.4 billion will be provided for the distribution of welfare assistance to benefit more than 440,000 households in need.
Datuk Speaker Sir,
31. Taking the wisdom of the words of Allah, Subhanahu Wa Taala in verse 220 of Surah al-Baqarah – we are reminded of the need to protect the welfare of orphans. As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, more than 4,700 children have lost their parents, who passed away as a result of the virus. As Keluarga Malaysia, it is our responsibility to ensure that the future of these children continue to be safeguarded.
32. Next year, the government will provide RM25 million to Yayasan Keluarga Malaysia to lead the efforts to protect the welfare, education and future of these orphans. In addition, the government will also encourage all parties, especially the corporate sector, to contribute towards their welfare.
33. On October 16, Yang Amat Berhormat prime minister had the opportunity to visit children who had lost their parents due to Covid-19. The whole country expressed their sympathy towards the fate of these children. For Muhammad Hadhrami; Husna Humaira; Muhammad Harraz; Muhammad Hawwas and Hannan Humaira as well as the other orphans of Keluarga Malaysia, we love all of you, and we will always be there to look after you.
34. The government would like to urge all parties, albeit NGOs, local communities, local leaders and even the corporate sector to play a role in ensuring the welfare of these children continue to be safeguarded so that the orphans are able to live together as one family without being separated anyone and able to build a bright future.
Initiative 2: Access to Public Healthcare Facilities
Datuk Speaker sir,
35. The government will continue to prioritise public health to build national resilience in our preparations for the endemic phase of Covid-19. Budget 2022 will provide RM32.4 billion to the Health Ministry for their operating and development expenditure. As a government that cares about the well-being of its people, the allocation for the Health Ministry is the second largest after the Education Ministry.
36. Our war with the Covid-19 pandemic is not over yet. Therefore, an additional RM4 billion will be provided specifically to continue the agenda on managing Covid-19, which includes RM2 billion to fund the vaccination programme. Another RM2 billion will be provided to enhance the capacity of public health service facilities, including the purchase of medicine, consumables, personal protective equipment (PPE) and health kits. In the spirit of Keluarga Malaysia, the Health Ministry has also outsourced to private hospitals and hospitals under other ministries in order to optimise the health capacity in the country.
37. Further, in order to continue the fight against Covid-19, the government intends to procure antiviral drugs that have been found to be effective against various viruses including Covid-19.
38. Most importantly, the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme will be further enhanced to provide the third dose of the Covid-19 vaccine as a booster shot to all adults as well as continuing the vaccination of children aged 12 to 17 years old. The government has signed agreements to procure 88 million doses, which is equivalent to 140% of our population and this is sufficient to provide a third dose to all residents aged 12 years old and above.
39. At this juncture, I would like to express my appreciation to all Yang Berhormat, who have unanimously approved the amendment to the Act, to allow the usage of Kumpulan Wang Amanah Negara funds to finance the procurement of Covid-19 vaccines. With the amendment, the government will optimise its resources to fulfil the vaccination needs of the nation in ensuring our recovery and build resilience of the rakyat and businesses.
40. For next year, the government proposes to provide individual tax relief and tax deduction to employers on costs associated with the adoption of self -funded booster vaccines.
Datuk Speaker Sir,
41. Public health aspects will also be given due attention. To foster a culture of healthy living as well as addressing non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity, the government will continue to drive the national health awareness programme, Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat. During a Budget engagement session with the youth, Dr Shantesh Kumar had raised the issue of rare diseases. In view of this, the government will also strengthen the clinical management of patients with rare diseases in Malaysia, such as lysosomal.
42. In addition, in support of a healthy lifestyle, the government proposes to expand the imposition of excise duty on sugary drink products in the form of pre-mixed chocolate or cocoa, malt, coffee and tea. The government also plans to impose excise duty on liquid or gel products containing nicotine that are used for electronic cigarettes and vaping.
43. To support the effectiveness of public health services, the government will work with the Red Crescent Society and St John Ambulance to improve access and responsiveness of ambulance services.
44. The government has agreed to extend the contracts of more than 10,000 medical, dental and pharmaceutical officers for a maximum of four years after their two-year compulsory service period to ensure continuity of their service and also as preparation for their specialist training. In addition, I am pleased to announce that the government agrees to approve the sponsorship of medical specialist programmes with an allocation of RM100 million for the benefit of 3,000 medical and dental contract officers.
45. This crisis has exacerbated the problems of poverty, domestic violence and depression, which are the root causes of mental health. Studies have shown that women are the most affected during this pandemic. Therefore, this Budget will allocate RM70 million to ensure that mental health issues are continuously given due priority, by among others, to strengthen mental health support services, counselling and psychosocial support, increase mental health advocacy programmes and strengthen the role of NGOs as partners on mental health programmes.
46. Further, the government proposes to expand the scope for individual income tax relief for full medical check-up expenses to cover the cost of check-up or consultation service related to mental health from registered psychiatrist, clinical psychologist and counsellor.
Initiative 3: Quality Education for All
Datuk Speaker Sir,
47. This Budget continues to prioritise education as the most important segment of public expenditure. The Education Ministry will continue to receive the largest allocation of RM52.6 billion or 16% of the total estimated federal expenditure. The Higher Education Ministry will be allocated a total of RM14.5 billion.
48. There is nothing more exciting for children than when they return to school to meet their friends. At the beginning of each year, of course, parents are the busiest to provide for their children’s schooling supplies. For the year 2022, the government has agreed to provide an early schooling assistance of RM150 per student, an increase from the previous RM100. A total of RM450 million will be allocated, which is expected to benefit three million eligible students.
49. With the reopening of schools, ensuring a conducive learning environment for our children will be given special attention. Next year, an allocation of RM1 billion will be provided for school maintenance and upgrading works. This allocation for maintenance includes RM140 million to Jakim for registered tahfiz schools, rakyat religious schools and pondok religious schools, which is an increase compared to RM100 million in 2021.
50. The allocation for maintenance to more than 10,000 schools under the Education Ministry will be distributed according to the type of school and based on a consistent rate. For 2022, a total of RM120 million will be provided for the benefit of 1,800 national Chinese schools as well as national Tamil schools.
51. In addition, next year, the government will continue to upgrade dilapidated schools with an allocation of RM746 million. The bulk of this allocation will go towards upgrading 112 and 165 dilapidated schools in Sabah and Sarawak, respectively.
52. To strengthen the agenda for special needs education, the government will provide RM50 million, among others, to fund the purchase of teaching aids and to improve the facilities in special needs schools. In addition, a total of eight new blocks for the special need education will also be built, among them at SMK Tuanku Lailatul Shahreen in Perlis and SMK Agama Alor Gajah in Melaka.
53. To ensure students from low-income families receive their daily nutritional intake for wholesome physical and mental development, the government proposes to provide daily milk as part of the Supplementary Food Programme (RMT) with an allocation of RM400 million. Part of the procurement under this programme will be earmarked for local milk producers.
54. During the implementation of the home-based teaching and learning (PdPR), teachers played a vital role in ensuring that each and every student was not left behind in getting a formal education.
In appreciation of the services rendered by teachers who went the extra mile for their students during the pandemic period, this Budget provides an RM100 one-time special incentive for teaching aids to more than 400,000 teachers under the Education Ministry.
Datuk Speaker Sir,
55. Throughout the pandemic, university students continued their studies in the new norm. For underprivileged students, they may have had to borrow a friend’s device, or visit the internet cafe in town to complete their homework. In some instances, there were also those who were not able to attend online lectures. In order to ensure that the studies for B40 students are not disrupted, the government, in collaboration with selected telecommunication companies, will implement the PerantiSiswa Keluarga Malaysia initiative to supply a tablet to every B40 student in institutions of higher learning. For this purpose, the government will provide an allocation of RM450 million in addition to the commitment of RM65 million from the telcos. InsyaAllah, a total of 600,000 students from B40 families are expected to benefit from this initiative.
56. In addition, the government proposes to extend the special individual income tax relief of up to RM2,500 for the purchase of mobile phones, computers and tablets until December 31, 2022.
57. The National Higher Education Fund (PTPTN) was established to manage and administer education loans provided to students who further their tertiary level education. Since this is a debt, it is an obligation that has to be repaid. Otherwise, it will deny our future generation the opportunity to further their studies. Therefore, to simplify the repayment process and cultivate a responsible attitude, the government has agreed to provide a discount on the repayment of PTPTN loans from November 1, 2021, till April 30, 2022, as follows:
First: A discount of 15% on the outstanding debt for full settlement;
Second: A discount of 12% for repayment of at least 50% of the outstanding debt made in a single payment; and,
Third: A discount of 10% for repayment through salary deductions or direct debit according to the repayment schedule.
58. Under the 12th Malaysia Plan, the government has identified technical and vocational education and training (TVET) as one of the game changers to meet the labour demand from our industry. To strengthen the TVET sector, the government will provide RM6.6 billion to implement various initiatives under the relevant ministries and agencies. Emphasis will be on meeting the current needs of the industry. Accordingly, an additional allocation of RM200 million will be provided for collaboration with industries including the National Dual Training System (SLDN) and industry certification programmes.
Initiative 4: Generating & Sustaining Jobs
Datuk Speaker Sir,
59. As you may be well aware, the Covid-19 pandemic has left a significant impact on lives and livelihoods, with the unemployment rate rose to 5.3% in May 2020. While it has moderated to 4.6% in August 2021, nearly 750,000 of our brothers and sisters remain unemployed and in need of assistance.
60. In line with the spirit of guaranteeing jobs, for the upcoming year, the government under the Jamin Kerja Keluarga Malaysia (JaminKerja) initiative will guarantee 600,000 job opportunities with an allocation of RM4.8 billion.
61. The Government via Socso will continue with the hiring incentive via the JaminKerja initiative with a target of 300,000 people and an allocation of RM2 billion. Under this initiative, for employers who hire Malaysians who have not been actively employed, the government will provide an incentive of 20% of the monthly salary for the first six months and 30% for the next six months subject to jobs with a salary of RM1,500 and above.
62. In addition, to encourage employers to provide employment opportunities for targeted groups like the disabled, Orang Asli and ex-convicts, the government will provide an incentive of 30% of the monthly salary for the first six months and 40% for the next six months for hiring from this category subject to jobs with a salary of RM1,200 and above. To encourage women to return to the workforce, this incentive is also extended to employers who employ women who have been unemployed for more than 365 days, single mothers and housewives.
63. Further, the Malaysia Short-term Employment Programmes or MySTEP initiative will be continued next year by offering 80,000 contract employment opportunities covering 50,000 jobs within the public sector and 30,000 jobs within government-linked companies from January 2022.
64. This Budget also targets 220,000 trainees to undergo various upskilling and reskilling programmes with a total allocation of RM1.1 billion. Among the programmes that will be implemented is the place and train programme, which is a training programme with guaranteed placement into employment. In addition, the upskilling programme in collaboration with industries will be enhanced prioritising digital skills such as the GLOW programme under MDEC.
65. One such example is Madam Zeti Haiza, a manager at a travel agency in Melaka. Without any incoming foreign tourists from abroad, her income has been adversely affected. Having undergone the Global Online Workforce (GLOW) training programme by MDEC, Madam Zeti successfully ventured into online freelancing platforms and now generates income from home and offers her services to customers abroad.
66. Based on the successful implementation of the reskilling and upskilling programme under Budget 2021, more than 85% of trainees have been offered job placements. It is hoped that through the implementation of the JaminKerja initiative as well as the economic recovery measures, the country’s unemployment rate will reduce to 4% thus returning the nation to full employment.
67. In an effort to encourage Malaysians to pursue training programmes and acquire new knowledge, the limit of individual income tax relief for up-skilling and self-enhancement course fees will be increased from RM1,000 to RM2,000 and extended to year of assessment 2023. In addition, those who undertake courses with any professional bodies will be eligible for a tax relief of up to RM7,000.
Approved courses include professional courses in accounting, finance and ESG-related.
68. The government also propose to extend the double tax deduction to companies that provide scholarships to students in institutions of higher learning and this incentive will also expanded to all fields of study.
Initiative 5: Social Protection
Datuk Speaker Sir,
69. This pandemic has proven how our social protection system needs to be further strengthened and broadened in coverage.
Therefore, the government is committed to continuing various policies and protection programmes for the benefit of our Keluarga Malaysia in need.
70. Under the Perlindungan Tenang Voucher programme, eligible B40 recipients are able to receive a RM50 voucher as financial assistance to purchase the Perlindungan Tenang products including life and personal accident takaful. This initiative will be continued with an increase to the voucher amount to RM75 in 2022. In addition, this voucher can also be used to help purchase a 150cc and below comprehensive motorcycle insurance policy from January 1, 2022. It is hoped that with this expansion in scope of coverage, the B40 group especially those who rely on motorcycles to earn a living will benefit from it.
71. In addition, the government also proposes to provide stamp duty exemption for the Perlindungan Tenang Product as well as other insurance or takaful products with a premium or contribution value not exceeding RM150 for individuals and RM250 for micro, small and medium enterprises.
72. As of September 30, 2021, the mySalam insurance scheme for the B40 has paid out claims relating to hospitalisation and critical illness of more than RM180 million to 125,000 patients. In addition, 229,000 individuals have also received compensation due to Covid-19 with a total value of RM115 million. For this year, the scope of mySalam has been expanded to cover the cost of medical devices such as stents for the heart. For the next year, the mySalam scheme will be expanded to cover eligible BKM recipients and claims for medical device benefits will also be extended to dependents of eligible mySalam recipients.
73. The i-Saraan initiative was implemented to encourage informal sector workers to save for retirement through EPF contributions. Through this initiative, the government will match a minimum of 15% from the voluntary contributions made by the informal sector workers limited to a maximum of RM250 per year.
For 2022, the government will expand the beneficiaries of this initiative to include those aged between 55 and 60 years. A total of RM30 million will be provided and is expected to benefit more than 100 thousand existing and new participants.
74. To provide social protection to housewives and by contributing to EPF and Socso, the government has provided RM80 million under the Kasih Suri Keluarga Malaysia Programme specifically to benefit housewives up to 55 years of age.
75. During the year, the government expanded the social protection coverage under Socso by also contributing for self-employed and informal workers. For next year, this initiative will continue with matching contribution of 80% by the government and extended to cover nine new categories of self-employed such as farmers, fishermen, hawkers, artists, travel agents and community rehabilitation workers. This initiative is expected to benefit more than 810,000 self-employed.
76. Madam Ch’ng Pui Peng and her husband who hail from Perak, have lost their livelihoods. In addition to raising a child, she is also taking care of her ageing mother. While she was in the process of finding a job, she was also given the enhanced job search allowance under Employment Insurance System (EIS). With that allowance, she was allowed to care for her family. I am happy to inform that Mdm Ch’ng is now employed. Therefore, in the spirit of continuing to assist such individuals actively seeking employment, the government will continue the initiative of providing enhanced job search allowance to both contributors and non-contributors.
77. Since the outbreak of Covid-19, thousands of our Keluarga Malaysia, who had lost their source of income due to the death of their husband, wife or even parents, have relied on their survivors’ pension under Socso. For 2022, the government plans to increase the minimum pension rate under the Skim Keilatan from RM475 to RM550, which is expected to assist 56,000 households. In addition, this initiative is followed by a revision of Socso benefits to higher cost of living, which is expected to benefit more than 400,000 existing beneficiaries. With this increase, the government also intends to increase the insured salary ceiling from RM4,000 to RM5,000 to improve the overall social security coverage for the nine million active workers covered by Socso. In total, this initiative will incur an additional RM267 million worth of Socso benefits.
78. Further, the government proposes to expand the tax relief of up to RM4,000 for EPF contributors to also include voluntary contributions, such as those who are self-employed in the gig economy.
79. Finally, to further encourage private employees to contribute to Socso and protect those who lose their jobs, the tax relief limit will be increased from RM250 to RM350 and the scope of relief for Socso contributions will also be expanded to cover employee contributions through the EIS.
Strategy 2: Cultivating Keluarga Malaysia
Datuk Speaker Sir,
80. The second strategy is to Build a Keluarga Malaysia. What is the meaning of Keluarga Malaysia if it doesn’t encompass initiatives for all segments of society regardless of race, religion, age, gender and territories.
Initiative 1: Bumiputera Development & Syiar Islam
81. The 2022 Budget ensures that the Bumiputera empowerment agenda continues to be given priority in our efforts to bridge the racial gap in the country. For that, a total of RM11.4 billion is provided to implement various programmes under the umbrella of Bumiputera development.
82. Of that amount, RM6.6 billion is allocated for educational purposes to Bumiputera institutions, which includes those under Mara, UiTM and Yayasan Peneraju. This allocation is provided for educational loans as well as improving oneself via the enrolment in diploma level from certificate level programmes, in addition to efforts to produce more Bumiputera professionals in the areas of medicine, engineering and finance.
83. Meanwhile, a total of RM4.8 billion is set aside for various capacity-building and funding programmes under Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Berhad, Tekun Nasional and Dana Kemakmuran Bumiputera.
84. In an effort to increase the involvement of anchor companies in developing local Bumiputera vendors, a double tax deduction for qualfying operating expenses has been increased from up to RM300,000 to RM500,000 and this initiative will be extended for a period of five years up to December 31, 2025.
85. Lastly, to encourage the participation of Bumiputera youths in small-scale government projects, a total of RM200 million will be carved out. Additionally, the government, via CIDB will form a dedicated accelerator programme for G1 to G4 youth contractors, which will provide capacity-building and on-the-job training, with a RM10 million allocation.
Datuk Speaker Sir,
86. The aspect of upholding the pillar of Islam is also a focus for Budget 2022. In total, the government has allocated RM1.5 billion for the management and development of Islamic affairs under the Prime Minister’s Department.
87. Under the Islamic education umbrella, the government will implement the following:
Firstly: Build an Islamic secondary school in the Federal Territory of Labuan at a total cost of RM65 million;
Second: Expand the scope of Takmir under Jakim to government agencies such as the Prisons Department, National Anti-drugs Agency and Social Welfare Department through the addition of 1,000 takmir teachers; and,
Third: Distribute a special one-time payment of RM500 for the benefit of 70,000 imams, bilal, siak, noja, marbut, takmir and Kafa teachers.
88. Waqf as an instrument of wealth redistribution for the economic development of the ummah will continue to be strengthened. To produce more farmers and halal industry entrepreneurs as well as to assist them in the event of a disaster, the government will launch the Waqf SME Halal, Agriculture Waqf and Disaster Waqf initiatives with an allocation of RM10 million as start-up capital. Corporates and the general public are encouraged to endow their property into this fund.
Initiative 2: Community Empowerment
Datuk Speaker Sir,
89. Apart from national programmes that benefits all Malaysians, a total of RM200 million is also provided specifically for the Chinese community. This allocation, is to be used among others, for home repairs and new village development as well as the SME Entrepreneur Financing Scheme.
90. For Indians, a total of RM145 million is provided for the socio-economic empowerment of the Indian community under the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (Mitra) and funding under the Indian Community Entrepreneur Development Scheme (Spumi) by Tekun.
91. To encourage and educate children in Sabah and Sarawak to deepen their knowledge in culture and heritage, a total of RM10 million will be allocated.
92. For the Orang Asli community, a total of RM274 million is allocated to implement, among others, the Orang Asli Standard of Living Improvement Programme, which includes the provision of subsidies and social welfare assistance will benefit almost 200,000 Orang Asli. In 2022, the government will increase the Orang Asli secondary school students’ subsistence rate to RM4 per day.
93. To support the agenda of unity and culture of volunteerism at the community level, the government will provide a grant of RM6,000 for each Rukun Tetangga Area (KRT). More than 8,000 KRTs will benefit from this grant with an allocation of RM50 million.
94. The government has also allocated RM50 million for repairs, maintenance and small development of non-Muslim houses of worship in local authority areas. This provision also includes the implementation of community activities in collaboration with the management of the houses of worship and local residents.
Initiative 3: Women Empowerment
Datuk Speaker Sir,
95. When we speak of women, they represent the best in this world and to be appreciated as our partner even in the hereafter. Women, if given the opportunity and space can be the main driving force for national productivity and economy. We should ensure that women are able to fulfil their potential in contributing to our shared well-being.
96. The contribution of women in the economy has never been denied but needs to be strengthened. Currently, women hold 25% of board positions on the top 100 public listed companies. However, 27% or 252 companies listed on Bursa Malaysia still do not have any female directors. Recognising the role of women in the decisionmaking process and to strengthen the governanve and effectiveness of boards, the government, through the Securities Commission, will make it mandatory to have at least one female board member for all public listed companies. This initiative will take effect from September 1, 2022, for large cap companies and from June 1, 2023, for the remaining listed companies.
97. Additionally, the government will allocate RM5 million to the Women Leadership Foundation to boost women’s participation in the economic sector through, among others, youth leadership training and entrepreneurship programmes.
98. A total of RM230 million in funding will be provided to support women entrepreneurs, particularly those affected by Covid-19 as well as to expand their business activities, through, among others, the Dananita programme under Mara and Tekunita under Tekun.
99. The government will implement the MyKasih Capital Programme to enable women to earn an income from home. Through this programme, assistance the form of basic business capital will be provided, in addition to guidance and training to undertake online businesses. An estimated 5,000 participants including 2,000 single mothers are expected to benefit from this programme.
100. To improve the existing support system for working mothers, RM30 million will be provided for childcare in government buildings, especially in public hospitals and universities. The government will also encourage private sector employers to adopt flexible working arrangements, as well as to provide childcare facilities at the office. For this, other than through tax incentives, the government will also amend guidelines to better facilitate childcare to operate above the first floor of office buildings.
101. In recognition of working mothers who require childcare services, the government proposes to the individual income tax relief of up to RM3,000 for fees paid to registered child care centre or kindergarten until the year of assessment 2023.
102. We must acknowledge the contributions of women in our lives especially in their role as mothers. However, at times, there are parties who do not understand the struggles of a mother, wife, or a daughter and allow for unacceptable acts to be perpetrated against women. This should not and must not happen.
103. As such, in addressing this issue, the government will allocate RM13 million specifically to strengthen the D11 Division – Sexual, Women and Children Investigation Division of the Royal Malaysian Police, in addition to creating 100 new posts. In line with this, community awareness programmes on violence against women will be undertaken across the country through the Waja Squad.
104. In addition, to protect the welfare of more victims of domestic violence, the government will also add local social support centres as well as work with NGOs to increase the number of special shelters for women.
105. The health and personal hygiene aspects of adolescent girls are very important in reducing health risks and potential school dropouts. My deputy, YB Paya Besar, in an engagement session, identified a serious issue – it is estimated that 130,000 young women from B40 families in Malaysia do not have access to hygiene products such as sanitary towels due to financial constraints. Therefore, the National Population and Family Development Board, in collaboration with the Prisons Department, will distribute free basic personal hygiene kits every month to 130,000 B40 female teenagers. In addition, reproductive health campaigns and education will also be conducted in schools in collaboration with NGOs.
106. Furthermore, also in relation to the women’s health segment, a total of RM11 million is provided as a subsidy for mammogram tests to high-risk women and to implement cervical cancer screening tests for women.
Initiative 4: Community Focused Empowerment
Datuk Speaker Sir,
107. The government will continue to actively implement socio-economic development programmes and preserve the welfare of communities in focus, especially those involving the elderly, children, the disabled (OKU) and others.
108. By 2030, Malaysia will potentially be categorised as an ageing nation. To ensure continuous assistance is extended to every senior citizen who needs support, this Budget allocated more than RM635 million for the purpose of welfare assistance, care institutions and senior citizen activity centres.
109. The aspect of child safety is important especially when travelling on roads. To promote the use of child safety seats in cars, the government will subsidise 50% or up to RM150 for the purchase of child safety seats by B40 households. A total of RM30 million is provided for this purpose and is expected to benefit 188,000 B40 households.
110. Furthermore, it is important to emphasise children’s health. The problem of malnutrition for children, especially among the urban poor, is very concerning. For next year, the government has allocated RM24 million to:
First: Expand the implementation of the Community Feeding Programme to children from urban poor families in the states of Selangor, Johor, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya with the target of providing supplementary food five times a week to 100 children aged between 1 to 6 years old;
Second: Expanding the scope of recipients under the Malnutrition Rehabilitation Programme for Children, which will benefit over 1,100 children; and,
Third: Establish a mothers’ milk bank for premature babies in the neonatal care unit of hospitals in Penang, Johor, Terengganu, Sabah and Sarawak.
Datuk Speaker Sir,
111. The welfare of the disabled has never been forsaken. For the next year, the government is providing a special allocation of RM30 million to upgrade government buildings infrastructure to be OKU-friendly. Amongst other things, this allocation will also be used for the provision of more specialised paths for the visually impaired.
112. Apart from that, RM10 million is also allocated to Independent living centres and the Government Industrial Training and Rehabilitation Centre to implement training and mentoring programmes for the disabled.
113. In ensuring the availability of opportunities for disabled youths, the government will set aside a special quota of 1% from the MyStep programme to be allocated for the disabled.
114. Probably not many people would recognise names like Madam Tan Lee Bee, Khairunnisa Kho Abdullah, Wan Zuraidah Abu dan Goh Soo Leng. They are actually the ones who serve as sign language interpreters that we often see in the corner of the television screen.
To improve the accessibility of the media as well as to ensure that the disabled are kept up to date with current news and information, with the help of Bernama, all TV networks including private channels will soon ensure sign language interpreters for their news programmes.
115. For 2022, the government has also agreed to bear the full cost of motor vehicle road tax on all private vehicles owned by the disabled. Hopefully, this will provide a little relief for the disabled.
116. The Community Rehabilitation Programme (PPDK) is used as an early intervention medium for children with disabilities to improve their skills and secure employment. So far, USM is the first university to implement such a PPDK. Next year, the government plans to expand it to other public universities.
Initiative 5: Youth and Sports Development
Datuk Speaker Sir,
117. The youth represent the future of our nation and thus, determines its success or otherwise. Practical real work exposure is very important in learning to face the challenging realities at work. Since 2019, the government has provided an allowance of RM900 to students that undergo industry training programmes. Thus, we call on the private sector to also provide a monthly allowance of at least RM900 for the services rendered by such students.
118. On a related matter, the government has provided incentives to employers who employ apprentices, namely school leavers and graduates aged 18 to 30 years. For 2022, the government will improve the monthly incentive from RM800 to RM900 for a period of up six months.
119. To facilitate youths that venture into entrepreneurship, financing of RM150 million has been earmarked by Bank Simpanan Nasional and Agrobank specifically for youth entrepreneurs.
120. The government proposes to extend the tax incentive for the Structured Internship Programme until the year of assessment 2025 and this incentive is also extended for students in the Master’s degree, professional certificate and Malaysian Skills Certificate Levels 1 and 2.
121. To foster a culture of cashless transactions at business premises, the government will credit RM150 as a one-off payment into the e-wallet accounts of youths aged 18 to 20 as well as full-time students at institutions of higher learning under the eStart Programme (e-Skim Transaksi Tanpa Tunai). With an allocation of RM300 million, the government hopes that the 2 million youths who stand to benefit from this programme will be able to make the best use of it through purchases such as books and learning equipment.
122. The song Negaraku which resounded in Tokyo recently,marked the success of our athletes in winning gold at the recent Paralympic Games. Our heartiest congratulations to Bonnie Bunyau Gustin, Cheah Liek Hou, Abdul Latif Romly as well as the entire national contingent for this proud achievement. Ahead of the 2024 Paris Paralympics, we target even greater success. Therefore, to strengthen the OKU sports industry, a total of RM10 million is specifically allocated to expand the development of OKU sports and the implementation of the OKU sports league.
123. In a wider context, Budget 2022 also allocated a total of RM159 million to build, upgrade and maintain sports facilities nationwide. This allocation will be for, amongst others, the construction of a stadium in Bukit Merbau, Pasir Putih, Kelantan, spanning facilities such as a hockey field, shooting range and an aquatic centre.
124. To ensure that the people return to an active lifestyle in line with the post-Covid-19 recovery, the government will allocate RM50 million to implement programs such as cultivating an active lifestyle, Fit Forever and the National Sports Day.
125. E-Sports has become a new phenomenon among the youth and is seen as having bright prospects for development at a national level. To boost the growth of e-sports, a total of RM20 million is provided for the development of national e-sports including RM5 million to create a drone sports centre-of-excellence.
126. I was thrilled when I received news of Malaysian-born athletes winning at the recent international e-sports championship in Romania. This success is testimony that our country has young talent that needs to be supported and honed. To recognise the achievements of our Malaysian-born e-sports athletes like NothingToSay, xNova Mushi, and Oli, the government proposes to allow an income tax exemption on recognised e-sports tournament prize money.
127. The sports industry has also been deeply impacted by the pandemic. Restrictions on social and sports activities have caused many owners of such facilities to face challenges in recommencing operations as the economy reopens. In meeting their financial needs, Bank Simpanan Nasional will provide a financing facility of up to RM50 million entailing zero interest rates for the first six months and a repayment moratorium for six months.
Strategy 3: Building a Conducive Living Environment
128. The third strategy is to build a conducive living environment. Efforts under this strategy are focused on alleviating the cost of living, encouraging home ownership, improving access to public transportation, developing rural infrastructure as well as enhancing national defence and public safety.
Initiative 1: Alleviating the Cost of Living
Datuk Speaker Sir,
129. In total, the government has prepared over RM31 billion under Budget 2022, particularly for subsidies, aid and incentives. This allocation is intended to mitigate the rising cost of living on the rakyat via price controls on goods and services.
130. To ensure rural areas, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak, have access to basic goods such as LPG and petrol at reasonable prices, the government will allocate RM200 million to subsidise the cost of transportation and distribution of basic goods to rural areas.
131. The government understands the financial challenges faced by the rakyat following the pro-longed movement control orders, especially in managing cash flows. To provide more cash in the hands of the rakyat, the minimum employee EPF contribution rate reduction from 11% to 9% will be extended up to June 2022 involving a potential value of RM2 billion.
132. To reduce the cost of vehicle ownership, the government will also extend the 100% sales tax exemption on CKD passenger vehicles and 50% on CBU including SUV and MPV for six months until June 30, 2022.
Initiative 2: Home Ownership
Datuk Speaker Sir,
133. Every member of Keluarga Malaysia has the right to own a home as a necessity of life. Towards that end, the government will continue housing projects specifically for low-income groups, with an allocation of RM1.5 billion. This allocation will, amongst others, involve the continuation of rumah mesra rakyat and maintenance assistance bantuan menyelenggara perumahan rakyat programmes.
At the same time, the government will not impose real property gains tax from the disposal of real property in the 6th year onwards will be.
134. I am cognisant of the challenges facing gig workers, small business owners and farmers in getting a housing loan. Many of these individuals have the capacity of repay their loans but have no proof of fixed income. To improve access to financing and help this group purchase a house, the government in 2022 will be providing guarantees of up to RM2 billion to banks via Skim Jaminan Kredit Perumahan.
Initiative 3: Access to Public Transportation
Datuk Speaker Sir,
135. Some in the interiors of Sabah and Sarawak are forced to traverse roads related to logging and spend hours travelling to gain access to services in their nearest town. The government empathises with the hardship faced by those in locations such as Kudat and Long Pasiah in Sabah as well as Ba’kelalan and Bario in Sarawak. Thus, in the year ahead, the government will continue to provide subsidies for air transportation services of RM209 million for the benefit of locals.
136. I have long been interested in the now viral train service to Dabong. Located at Kuala Krai in Kelantan, Dabong has always been a popular spot for eco-tourism combined with a very affordable train fare. The KTMB train service is always full on the weekends. However, on weekdays, most of its passengers are school students. These students currently benefit under the MyRail5 pass initiative, which costs a mere RM5 a month for use on an unlimited basis. Thus, the government will continue to provide subsidies to partly support the cost of uneconomical train services in rural areas especially in the East Coast and continue to provide the MyRail5 pass initiative to benefit school students.
137. Moreover, the government has provided RM80 million for the Interim Stage Bus Support Fund (ISBSF) to benefit stage buses as well as RM115 million for the unlimited travel pass for bus and rail priced at RM50 monthly for commuters mainly in the Klang Valley.
Initiative 4: Rural Infrastructure
Datuk Speaker Sir,
138. In reducing the development gap between regions, the government is committed to further improve the well-being of rural Malaysians. In the year ahead, more than RM2.5 billion has been prepared for various rural programmes such as:
First: Nearly RM1.5 billion to implement rural and intervillage road projects spanning 519km that will benefit over 130,000 people;
Second: RM382 million for rural and alternative water supply with a target of 4,800 homes;
Third: RM485 million for rural electricity supply with a target of 2,100 homes; and,
Fourth: RM107 million to install 7,000 new units of kampung street lights and maintain more than 500,000 existing units of street lights, upgrade 20 dilapidated bridges while undertaking preliminary works for the construction of a further 30 new bridges.
Of this total allocation, a large portion namely RM1.5 billion, is allocated for the development of rural infrastructure in Sabah and Sarawak.
Initiative 5: National Defence & Public Safety
Datuk Speaker Sir,
139. Economic prosperity would not be possible without peace and stability. In the year ahead, the Budget will allocate RM16 billion and RM17 billion for the Defence Ministry and the Home Ministry, respectively.
140. This includes an allocation of RM1.6 billion to improve the readiness of primary assets by the Malaysian Armed Forces. This allocation will also involve RM14 million to replace primary equipment for Paksal and Paskau like parachutes, diving equipment and boats.
141. The welfare of the police and armed forces will continue to be a priority. In the year ahead, RM230 million will be prepared for maintenance and repair works for schools in military camps, military facilities and military quarters, namely Rumah Keluarga Angkatan Tentera. The said allocation will also be used for the repair and replacement of lifts in PDRM quarters.
142. To protect Malaysia’s sovereignty, the government will add eight border control posts under Pasukan Gerakan Am including in Pagalungan in Sabah and Temong Mura in Sarawak to improve border monitoring and enforcement.
143. In addition, the government will add four new immigration access points including in Telok Melano and Baleh in Sarawak to meet the needs of increased cross border traffic following Indonesia’s plan to move its capital to Kalimantan and the opening of the Telok Melano line under the Pan Borneo Highway.
144. In facing the upcoming flood season during the North East monsoon, the preparedness of the National Disaster Management Agency will be critical. For 2022, RM100 million will be provided to, amongst others, reduce the burden of flood via the distribution of food kits.
145. Moreover, the government will execute the Malaysian Incentive Community Empowerment initiative via the awarding of grants of up to RM10,000 to 2,000 associations registered with the Registry of Societies Malaysia in the category of welfare, social, safety and basic rights. This initiative involves an allocation of RM20 million. – The Vibes, October 29, 2021
Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz is finance minister
This is Part 1 of the full Budget 2022 speech. You can read Part 2 here
