Budget 2026 to Reflect States’ Economic Priorities, Says Anwar

MELAKA, Sept 27 (VoM): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has assured that Budget 2026 will be crafted in line with the economic strengths and priorities of each state, rather than being dictated solely at the ministerial level.

Speaking at the Budget 2026 Engagement Session for Tourism and Manufacturing Industry Players in Banda Hilir, Anwar said the approach is vital to support sustainable economic growth while addressing people’s needs, especially in managing the rising cost of living.

“Each state has its strengths. In Melaka, for example, the focus is on tourism and manufacturing, sectors where the state has shown encouraging performance,” he said.

Also present were Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, and Finance Ministry Deputy Secretary General of Treasury (Policy) Datuk Zamzuri Abdul Aziz.

Anwar emphasized that the public’s cost-of-living concerns must remain central to policymaking, pointing out the widening gap between the elite and lower-income groups.

“That is why economic strengthening cannot be defined by traditional economic theory alone. It must be linked to real needs and sound judgment, ensuring development is fair, practical, and does not burden the people,” he stressed.

The session, attended by about 150 representatives from the tourism and manufacturing sectors along with federal and state agencies, aimed to gather industry input for the upcoming national budget.