The government will place greater emphasis on addressing the people's cost-of-living issues more comprehensively in Budget 2027, taking into account the unsettled global geopolitical situation, said Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil.
Speaking after launching the 2026 Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang (KMJG) X JAGO programme for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya at Taman Seri Sentosa Market on Sunday (Aug 23), Fahmi said budget preparations would also consider various external factors, including movements in global crude oil prices.
"Overall, I see that on behalf of the government, the focus in Budget 2027 will include ensuring that the people's cost-of-living issues are addressed more comprehensively, taking into account the geopolitical situation, which remains unresolved at this time," he told reporters, as reported by both Malay Mail and The Star.
"So, factors such as crude oil prices, which are usually one of the benchmarks, will be among the considerations," he added.
Budget priorities
Fahmi, who is also the Madani Government spokesman, said Budget 2027 would also prioritise projects capable of resolving the people's problems in the shortest possible time. This will run alongside efforts to attract more domestic and international investment and support the implementation of the 13th Malaysia Plan.
Also present at the launch was Federal Territories Information Department director Normaizatulakmal Tujad.
Communications Ministry focus
For the Communications Ministry, Fahmi said one of its priorities was to expand internet access, particularly in remote areas. He added that the ministry was also looking into media sustainability issues as well as providing incentives to attract international events and film productions to Malaysia.
"Perhaps incentives such as CIME (Concerts and Events in Malaysia Incentive) and FIMI (Filming in Malaysia Incentive)... both are capable of attracting more investors to Malaysia," he said, noting that these are currently being discussed at the Communications Ministry level and among messages received from the Finance Ministry.
Both Malay Mail and The Star carried the announcement, with The Star also linking to related budget stories, including statements from other officials on raising incomes and boosting national competitiveness.