Kuala Lumpur:Budget 2027 is set to enhance the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology in delivering public services, while also positioning Malaysia's ageing population as a valuable economic resource, as stated by the Administrative and Diplomatic Officers' Alumni Association (Alumni PTD).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tan Sri Abdul Halim Ali, president of Alumni PTD and former Chief Secretary to the Government, emphasized the need for modernizing public administration and developing a professional care economy. He highlighted these areas as crucial for Malaysia's future as the country approaches 2030 and the implementation of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) progresses.
Alumni PTD advocates for a resilient, high-income, and compassionate Malaysia through bold vision, administrative discipline, and inclusive social planning. The association believes that modernizing public service delivery, professionalizing the care industry for the youth, and transforming the ageing population into a productive asset are essential for the nation's sustainability.
The association calls for dedicated funding to fully digitalize ministries and agencies, replacing outdated systems with integrated digital platforms to enable seamless data sharing. Abdul Halim stresses the importance of deploying AI systematically for regulatory, licensing, enforcement, and service delivery to enhance decision-making, speed up processes, reduce corruption, and improve public service responsiveness.
Furthermore, mandatory professional development in digital literacy, data analytics, cybersecurity, and ethical AI use is recommended to prepare public sector workers for emerging technologies. On procurement, Alumni PTD suggests reinforcing open and competitive tender processes, enhancing accountability, and implementing anti-corruption measures throughout the procurement cycle. Procurement decisions should prioritize sustainability, energy efficiency, and long-term maintenance to avoid project delays and substandard delivery.
Abdul Halim also notes that Malaysia's ageing population, with over 15% expected to be aged 60 and above by 2036, should be seen as an economic growth driver. He proposes a professional elderly care ecosystem with certified roles, structured career progression, and better pay to attract workers. Incentives for young Malaysians, such as wage-matching, training grants, and apprenticeships in the care sector, alongside tax incentives for modern eldercare investments, are recommended.
Lastly, the establishment of a National Establishment Senior Talent Centre (NEST Centre) is proposed to engage retired professionals as mentors and consultants. A Family Caregiver Allowance Scheme is also suggested to support those caring for elderly parents, along with certified caregiver training and respite services.