Kuala Lumpur: Comprehensive and proactive cooperation and involvement between the local community and the agencies involved are crucial to ensuring that every government programme has a positive impact on the people. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan stated that the local community’s acceptance and commitment from the agencies involved could ensure that each programme implemented achieves the set objectives. He emphasized that when programmes are done correctly and continued properly by the local community, success can be achieved.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Amir Hamzah highlighted the success of entrepreneurs who started with nothing and now own their shops, illustrating the effectiveness of programmes like those initiated by CIMB and the MADANI government. These initiatives aim to build an ecosystem that encourages growth and community investment. He shared these insights with reporters after officiating the ‘Satu Pemimpin Satu Kampung Santuni MADANI Programme’ launch ceremony, organised by CIMB Group Holdings Bhd.
Through the Santuni MADANI programme, CIMB has committed RM3.6 million over two years to foster long-term positive impacts for around 9,000 residents in four people’s housing projects (PPR). The programme focuses on capacity building, skills development, access to quality education, and promoting sustainable living. Santuni MADANI is a government initiative that involves leaders from various federal ministries, agencies, and other entities to bridge the socio-economic gap among underserved groups.
In his speech, Amir Hamzah reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring inclusivity and sustainability in Malaysia, stressing the private sector’s role in empowering vulnerable groups. The Santuni MADANI initiative, led by CIMB, aligns with the government’s goal of creating a competitive and progressive society by addressing issues such as poverty, unemployment, and school dropout rates.
CIMB group chief executive officer Novan Amirudin stated that as a purpose-driven organisation, CIMB is dedicated to improving community life and expanding its social finance efforts. The programme aims to promote self-sufficiency, create lasting positive impacts, and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities to elevate individuals’ and families’ economic status.
Novan added that CIMB’s initiatives are designed to provide necessary tools, resources, and skills for sustainable livelihoods. By focusing on economic empowerment and financial inclusion, the initiatives enable individuals to secure a brighter and more sustainable future, creating ripple effects that drive transformative change in communities.