KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) must be designed through a comprehensive and holistic approach that reflects the needs of all layers of society while incorporating environmental and governance considerations, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
In a news report by TVS, he said such an approach is essential to strengthen the nation’s competitiveness and ensure Malaysia continues to stand out on the global stage.
“If we want to redraw our development agenda, we must carefully and holistically plan 13MP to enhance our competitiveness and ensure Malaysia continues to excel internationally,” he told reporters after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim tabled the 13MP in Parliament today.
Fadillah, who also serves as Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, said the plan aligns with the three pillars of the Madani Economy framework – raising the ceiling, strengthening governance, and lifting the floor.
The plan includes a focus on technology-driven development such as artificial intelligence (AI), efficient and transparent governance, and improvements in the overall quality of life for Malaysians.
He said his ministry would continue prioritising energy and water sustainability, in line with the government’s aspiration to provide affordable, sustainable energy to all segments of society.
“One of the new approaches introduced involves innovative energy market mechanisms and a more efficient energy usage system through a new time-of-use tariff structure,” he added.
Fadillah said that the government is currently exploring the potential of nuclear energy as a future source of cleaner and more stable power, particularly to complement solar energy and address the country’s growing demand for firm energy.
On water-related issues, he said the ministry would focus on the immediate implementation of flood mitigation projects, especially in Johor, Perak, Pahang, Sarawak and Sabah, to address increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
As Minister in charge of Sabah and Sarawak Affairs, Fadillah also expressed appreciation for the government’s continued focus on infrastructure investments in East Malaysia.
“I thank the government for the strong focus on Sabah and Sarawak, including the continuation of the Pan Borneo and Trans Borneo highway projects.
“These are crucial to improving connectivity and basic infrastructure in both states,” he said.
