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NEWLY-APPOINTED Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir emphasised today that the year 2026 will be the “Year of Execution,” signalling a shift from policy formulation to tangible delivery of programmes, projects and initiatives under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13).
Speaking at the Ministry of Economy’s annual assembly on Thursday, he said that every policy must “ultimately reach the people, according to the right target groups.”
“We want execution to be our shared KPI for the secretary general, deputy secretaries general, directors, heads of departments and agencies, including for myself and the deputy minister,” he stressed, highlighting the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that strategies do not remain on paper but translate into measurable impact for the population.
Among the priority projects for 2026 is the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
Akmal confirmed that a comprehensive master plan for the zone would be unveiled by March, offering a structured guide for investors while coordinating development across the region.
He said he is scheduled to meet his Singapore counterpart by the end of the month, following a request for an in-person discussion.
“We will wait and see because I think it’s better for me to meet the minister and get the understanding between both countries,” he said when asked about the meeting agenda.
The JS-SEZ, formally agreed in January 2025, aims to attract 100 projects worth RM100 billion over its first decade, creating approximately 100,000 jobs in high-value sectors.
Incentives, including a special corporate tax rate, have been introduced to attract investors to the zone stretching from Kulai and parts of Pontian to Pengerang.
The minister also underscored the importance of delivering smaller, high-impact projects that directly benefit citizens.
“When damaged bridges, pothole-ridden rural roads, dilapidated quarters, clinics and schools are resolved quickly, people can see that the government is present to solve real issues on the ground — not merely talking about megaprojects,” he said.
He stressed that such initiatives complement broader economic goals, helping generate local employment, improve infrastructure, and reduce the development gap between urban and rural areas.
In addition, Akmal acknowledged the contributions of former ministers and deputy ministers, stating, The English translation of that sentence is:
"All of these figures have made highly significant contributions in leading the Ministry of Economy, particularly in strengthening the ministry’s operations and achieving the successful formulation of the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13)."He also praised ministry staff for their role in achieving Malaysia’s 2025 economic growth, citing a GDP growth of 5.2% in the third quarter and stable unemployment at 3.0%.
Looking ahead, the minister reiterated that RMK13 belongs not only to the Ministry of Economy but to all Malaysians, insisting that its benefits must be “seen and felt by all citizens.”
He added that by urging staff to approach their work with integrity, common sense, and a focus on creating tangible value.
“Every small step we take today lays the foundation for greater success tomorrow,” he said. -January 8, 2025