Kuala lumpur: The Bumiputera empowerment agenda has been pursued more assertively under the MADANI Government over the past three years, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, stated that the approach demonstrates the government's stance against elitism at the expense of Bumiputera interests, contrary to allegations by certain groups.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted the government's decision to grant automatic matriculation placement to students who obtain 10As, regardless of race, while maintaining the existing quota for Bumiputera students. He emphasized that 90 per cent of Bumiputera students continue to receive opportunities through the matriculation programme, reflecting an inclusive approach. He urged that debates should consider the policy in its entirety and avoid creating a zero-sum game perception.

While officiating Majlis Amanah Rakyat's (MARA) 60th anniversary celebration at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, Anwar reiterated that the fundamentals of government policy remain consistent but must be implemented wisely to ensure national stability. He affirmed Malaysia's commitment to 'justice as fairness,' focusing on protection for marginalised and underserved groups. Anwar mentioned that the Bumiputera agenda is a priority, with responsibilities entrusted to the Deputy Prime Minister and Cabinet ministers.

He outlined key decisions made over the past three years, including the declaration of Malay Reserve Land, a first since 1997. Anwar noted that MARA's role in education has been strengthened with increased allocations totaling RM43 billion, benefiting more than 1.8 million students. He mentioned initiatives like 'Ulul Albab' that balance modern knowledge with religious values.

From an economic perspective, Anwar cited a rise in Bumiputera household income by over 10 per cent, acknowledging existing gaps. He stressed the government's efforts to eradicate hardcore poverty and increase development allocations for less-developed states, irrespective of political alignment. The unemployment rate has also declined to its lowest in a decade.

Anwar added that the government has launched initiatives to enhance Bumiputera participation in high-value sectors through collaboration with agencies like Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB), and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF). The government aims for greater Bumiputera equity ownership by 2035 through the Bumiputera Economic Transformation Plan 2035 (PuTERA35), and government-linked investment companies are being mobilised to train Bumiputera in emerging sectors such as semiconductors, green energy, and technology.