Budget 2025 reflects strong commitment to national development

KUALA LUMPUR: UMNO Kedah fully supports the 2025 Budget presented by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, which reflects a strong commitment to ongoing national development and prosperity.

According to the Wilayahku portal, the Chairman of the Kedah UMNO Liaison Committee, Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid, stated that the budget focuses on inclusive growth, strengthening the economy, and addressing the needs of all Malaysians.

“This is especially true for those living in rural and underdeveloped areas.

“The government’s people-centric efforts include increasing the Rahmah Cash Contribution (STR) to address the cost of living issues and boost the income of the people.

“Therefore, UMNO Kedah believes that the 2025 Budget has been well-structured, where all phases of the economy are given attention, and the people are prioritized,” he said in a statement.

Mahdzir expressed joy over the government’s allocation of RM600 million to the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA).

He stated that this allocation clearly demonstrates the Madani Government’s readiness and commitment to effectively address natural disasters and ensure the welfare of the people.

“This is particularly important for states like Kedah, which are prone to floods and other natural disasters,” he said.

Additionally, Mahdzir highlighted the emphasis on strengthening the agricultural sector, which is vital for Kedah’s economy, through modernization efforts and support for farmers.

He noted that the Five-Season Rice Planting Project in the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) Phase 1 area, which will commence with a cost of RM1 billion over nearly 11,000 hectares, aims to enhance productivity and improve livelihoods.

“The government’s holistic approach to disaster preparedness, coupled with agricultural development, assures us that rural communities and farmers in Kedah will be better prepared to face future challenges.

“The 2025 Budget also provides allocations for TVET development, educational assistance, health infrastructure, entrepreneurship development, and promoting tourism activities.

“The welfare of rice farmers and fishermen, business assistance and financing, as well as facilities for hawkers and small traders, are also addressed,” he said.

Mahdzir further praised the government’s commitment to tackling the rising cost of living through financial assistance for vulnerable groups and targeted allocation increases.

However, he noted that while the budget allocation is promising, UMNO Kedah places greater importance on the effectiveness of the delivery system.

“The current methods, which often rely on outdated bureaucratic processes, can hinder the timely distribution of aid and resources.

“We believe it is essential to modernize and streamline the delivery mechanisms to ensure that the people of Kedah, particularly farmers and rural communities, receive benefits without unnecessary delays,” he said.

Mahdzir emphasized that UMNO Kedah is committed to collaborating with the government to enhance this system so that the budget can be implemented efficiently and its full potential realized.

He stated that UMNO Kedah supports the successful implementation of a budget that recognizes a balanced and strategic approach to drive economic growth while meeting the needs of all Malaysians and ensuring sustainable benefits for everyone.