PM seeks to bolster Mara’s role as a fundamental institution for Bumiputera

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for the role of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) to be further strengthened as a key institution in advancing Bumiputera empowerment through a more inclusive, equitable and comprehensive national development agenda.

Anwar said MARA’s expanded role should focus on improving access to quality education, strengthening technical and vocational education and training (TVET), enhancing education financing opportunities, developing entrepreneurship and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The Prime Minister said the matter was emphasised during a special meeting with MARA’s top management on Thursday, aimed at ensuring the Bumiputera empowerment agenda continues to progress under effective, transparent and integrity-driven governance.

“Through policies championed by MARA, we can produce more skilled and semi-skilled workers, as well as competitive local professionals and entrepreneurs who can contribute meaningfully to the nation’s workforce,” he said in a Facebook post.

Anwar added that stronger participation in education and business sectors would help increase Bumiputera ownership, participation and control within the national economy, in line with present economic demands and future global challenges.

He also highlighted MARA’s ongoing transformation initiatives and entrepreneur scaling programmes, saying they have already benefited millions of Bumiputera students and business owners across the country.

According to Anwar, these initiatives have played an important role in strengthening social mobility and improving economic opportunities for the Bumiputera community.

The Prime Minister reiterated that empowering local entrepreneurs, improving workforce skills and expanding access to education remain crucial components of the MADANI government’s long-term economic development strategy.