Budget 2026: People-Centric Measures to Boost Welfare and Spur the Economy

PETALING JAYA, Oct 10: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Friday (Oct 10) tabled the RM470 billion national Budget 2026, focusing on people-centric initiatives to strengthen welfare support and accelerate economic growth.

This marks an 11.6% increase from last year’s budget of RM421 billion. Titled the “Fourth Madani Budget: People’s Budget,” it is Anwar’s fourth budget since taking office as Prime Minister. Key Highlights: RM100 cash aid for 22 million Malaysians aged 18 and above.

Increased development allocations for Sabah and Sarawak.

Additional contributions to workers’ savings schemes. Major Allocations, Education Ministry – RM66.2 billion, up from RM64.1 billion last year, marking a RM2.1 billion increase.

The Education Ministry once again receives the largest allocation in the national budget. Finance Ministry: RM47 billion, Health Ministry: RM46.5 billion, an RM1.2 billion increase from the previous year. Biggest Budget Increases by Ministry: Education Ministry: +RM2.1 billion, Home Affairs Ministry: +RM1.7 billion, Health Ministry: +RM1.2 billion, Analysis

Budget 2026 continues the government’s Madani framework, emphasizing social justice, economic resilience, and inclusive growth. By directing more funds to education, healthcare, and regional development, the government aims to ensure that Malaysia’s post-pandemic recovery benefits all layers of society.

Prime Minister Anwar described this as a “people’s budget,” focused on raising living standards, reducing regional disparities, and empowering the workforce, laying the foundation for sustainable national progress.