Kuala lumpur: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) has been crafted with the core objectives of the MADANI Economy framework at its foundation while maintaining the flexibility to navigate both domestic and external uncertainties over the next five years, said an economist. Putra Business School Associate Professor Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff also noted that the scope of the 13MP is broader compared to the 12MP, reflecting the country’s need to stay competitive and sustainable.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, a wider focus is necessary, as Malaysia cannot rely on a single path. Diversifying strategies is crucial to ensure resilience in the face of both global and local challenges. Dr Ahmed pointed out that while some targets are realistic, others might be ambitious; however, the government’s monitoring system will ensure timely and structured interventions.
Meanwhile, economist Professor Geoffrey Williams commented that the overall economic contribution aligns with normal development spending. He highlighted that the federal government’s development expenditure will remain at RM86 billion per year. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of good governance practices to ensure efficient spending, which is a notable difference of the MADANI approach compared to prior administrations.
The 13MP involves RM611 billion in investments to drive sustainable growth, with RM430 billion allocated for government development. Funding from government-linked companies and GLICs is projected at RM120 billion to support domestic direct investment in strategic sectors, while public-private partnerships are expected to contribute RM61 billion.
CIMB Investment Bank Bhd regards the 13MP as a strategic blueprint that prioritizes fiscal consolidation while advancing growth in sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and clean energy. The bank supports the plan’s GDP growth expectation of 4.5 to 5.5 per cent annually, citing Malaysia’s economic performance from 2021 to 2024.
Furthermore, CIMB Investment Bank maintains its 2025 GDP forecast at 4.3 per cent, expecting the overnight policy rate to remain stable. Malaysia’s new tariff rate with the United States is anticipated soon, and Budget 2026 is scheduled for presentation on October 10, 2025.