KUCHING: The Federal Budget 2026 will be tabled on Oct 10 and Malaysians from various walks of life are calling for a people-focused financial plan that not only drives economic growth but also delivers tangible improvements to their daily lives.
Among the hopes expressed is for the budget to go beyond macroeconomic figures and strengthen socio-economic safety nets, education and training opportunities, labour reforms and wage growth, all while ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
Sarawak Tribune spoke to several members of the public to find out more about their hopes for the upcoming Budget 2026 presentation.
NASRUL-ARIF MAHMUD, 34, PHD STUDENT:
My biggest hope for Budget 2026 is to make sure economic spending can be more than macro numbers and also tangibly improve Malaysian lifestyles including strengthening socio-economic safety, education, upskilling and professionalism, and labour reforms and wage growth.
The federal budget should address urban-rural inequities, digital connectivity, and learning environment inclusivity in order to strengthen education and research infrastructure.
Underserved schools and institutions should be renovated with targeted funding, better transportation, and mobile learning tools.
Most importantly, I hope the budget would provide an efficient spending cycle and promote inclusive socio-economic growth.
FREDDY LIMBAB, 30, BUSINESSMAN:
I hope the 2026 Budget will be more robust and aligned with the needs of a competitive economy. It should focus on strengthening domestic industries and creating more opportunities for people to benefit from assistance, including special aid and budget allocations, to help small industries grow and boost national and state GDPs.
As a businessman living in Engkilili, I believe rural areas need greater development. Engkilili, in particular, requires improved infrastructure and administrative hubs such as government offices, roads, police and fire stations, clinics, hospitals, and new market buildings.
These facilities would help farmers and smallholders generate sustainable income rather than relying solely on government aid.
The budget should act as a long-term guide for the next five to ten years, ensuring financial sustainability without overburdening the people with tariffs and taxes.
Global socio-political uncertainties are affecting economic growth, and this must be considered. I hope the budget will bring real benefits to low-income and underprivileged communities while unlocking the potential of local communities and supporting sustainable, stable development for the nation.
SYARIFAH NURIZZATI WAN CHEE, 24, PROTEGEE ADMINISTRATION:
I hope the 2026 Budget focuses on creating sustainable job opportunities, especially for young graduates and Protégé trainees entering the workforce.
There should be initiatives for career development, digital upskilling, and long-term employment in both public and private sectors.
Investment in human capital and training aligned with industry needs is crucial, along with support for digital transformation. Incentives for companies offering graduate programmes can help bridge the education–employment gap.
I also hope for measures to ease the cost of living, including housing, transport, education, and healthcare support to help young adults and families manage daily expenses.
MUSFIRAH SAFIAH, 34, EDITOR:
My main hope is that Budget 2026 benefits all citizens fairly and equally.
I would love for the government to support the Department of Veterinary Services under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, especially in terms of subsidising vaccines and treatments for pets, as well as expanding neuter and spay programmes. I believe this will help control the population of stray animals.
I hope the budget will be spent on areas that provide long-term benefits to the community. While daily challenges vary, it would be ideal to focus on initiatives that can positively impact everyone.
SYAF SAFIEE, 24, HEAD OF ADMINISTRATION:
I hope the federal government will prioritise improving Kuching’s transportation sector. Many areas still lack proper bus stops, putting passengers at risk.
Upgrading facilities supports sustainable development goals (SDG) by creating safer, more accessible cities.
More investment is needed to modernise and expand public transport through digital innovation and better infrastructure. While the pink “Bas Madani” is a good start, routes should cover more rural areas with smarter app features. Bus fares like RM7 from Kuching to Serian burden commuters, so subsidies should include adults aged 18 to 60. Better facilities and stronger federal–local collaboration can make transport safer and more affordable.
