Budget 2024: Rural areas will not be left behind under, says Ahmad Zahid

Rural development will remain a top priority in Budget 2024 to ensure that no one is left behind, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He highlighted that 8.01 million people in Malaysia, accounting for 24.5% of the population, still reside in rural areas. Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, stated that this emphasis on rural development will stimulate and enhance growth in these areas.

In relation to this, Ahmad Zahid informed reporters during a press conference in Kuching that the Prime Minister, who is also the Finance Minister, will prioritize rural development in Budget 2024. His aim is to ensure that the rural population does not lag behind in terms of progress and development.

The Rural and Regional Development Ministry has already submitted its request for allocations to the Economy Ministry and Treasury for consideration. When questioned about the expected amount of allocations, Ahmad Zahid suggested waiting for Budget 2024’s tabling on Friday, October 13th.

Aside from these efforts, Ahmad Zahid also praised the regional development agencies in Sarawak for being a “gamechanger” that other states can learn from. He commended Sarawak’s achievement in establishing 10 regional development agencies, which prioritize both technology advancements and fulfilling the basic needs of rural communities.

The Ministry of Rural and Regional Development plans to concentrate on providing high-tech courses, particularly those that cater to the skills demanded by various industries. Ahmad Zahid expressed his goal of shifting the mindset of job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs from blue-collar jobs to white-collar jobs that offer higher remuneration.