by S BIRRUNTHA / graphic TMR

BUDGET 2023 which brings a responsive, responsible and reformist approach, focuses on every level of the Malaysian Family, Prime Minister (PM) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said. 

He added the budget is in line with the theme “Prosperous Malaysian Family Together”, as there is allocation for all groups, whether the bottom 40% income group, middle 40% income group, youth, women or people with disabilities. 

“In line with its theme, this budget focuses on the entire Malaysian Family. In fact, this budget also includes development for both urban and rural,” he told the reporters after the tabling of Budget 2023 in the Dewan Rakyat last Friday. 

Commenting further, Ismail Sabri said Budget 2023 also focuses on the country’s preparation in the face of economic uncertainty. 

He highlighted that the budget focuses on economic recovery and for the country to prepare for the projected uncertain economic situation next year. 

Earlier, Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz presented Budget 2023 with the aim of strengthening the momentum of economic recovery, strengthening economic resilience and implementing comprehensive reforms. 

He noted that the budget will continue to provide substantial support to the economy with a total allocation of RM372.3 billion or 20.5% of the nation’s GDP. 

Of the amount, RM272.3 billion, or 73.1% will be allocated for operating expenditure and RM95 billion or 25.5% for development expenditure. 

The remaining RM5 billion is for outstanding payments of the Covid-19 Fund commitments made in 2022.