Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed that education remains the most powerful equaliser in Malaysia's development agenda, with the government allocating more than RM84 billion under Budget 2026 to strengthen education and training reforms. He emphasized that this allocation is not just a financial commitment, but also reflects the nation's strong resolve to promote flexibility, mobility, and lifelong learning, aligning with the evolving demands of the labour market.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted that these reforms are a response to a labour market already in transition, where skills require renewal, careers evolve, and workers need support at various stages of life. He stressed that modern education must equip Malaysians with not only knowledge but also adaptability, resilience, and confidence to navigate change. He shared these insights at the Malaysia Economic Forum 2026 held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Present at the forum were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir. Anwar, who also serves as the Finance Minister, stated that the reforms are designed to support workers as their careers evolve and as the need for continuous skill renewal arises.
He noted the rapid reshaping of industries and employment patterns by artificial intelligence (AI), making preparedness a critical factor in ensuring that technology either broadens opportunities or avoids deepening inequality. The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of broad-based growth, advocating for regional development, support for small and medium enterprises, and the enhancement of higher-value tourism services as essential for long-term economic resilience.
Furthermore, Anwar stressed that prosperity must be accompanied by security in basic necessities, such as healthcare, housing, and preparation for an ageing society, which he deemed fundamental to social stability and dignity. The Malaysia Economic Forum 2026 serves as a platform for policymakers, business leaders, investors, and industry experts to advance the country's socioeconomic agenda under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (2026-2030), focusing on high-growth and high-value industries, inclusivity, sustainability, artificial intelligence, future-ready talent, and energy transition.