Kuala lumpur: The government has stressed that the main focus in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) has now shifted from simply setting growth targets to implementing more effective mechanisms. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said this is to ensure that implementation of economic policies does not become 'counter-productive' or detrimental to the long-term well-being of the people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir emphasized the importance of the 13MP implementation during a question-and-answer session at the Dewan Rakyat. He stated that the government aims to address policy gaps and achieve the goal of "raising the floor," ensuring that economic improvements benefit the population's income and purchasing power.

In response to a supplementary question from Jimmy Puah Wee Tse (PH-Tebrau), Akmal Nasrullah explained the government's efforts to enhance the income levels of workers and traders. The focus is on increasing their purchasing power to improve overall economic conditions.

Addressing a query from Datuk Nik Muhammad Zawawi Salleh (PN-Pasir Puteh) about commitment to developing the people's economy and the East Coast, Akmal Nasrullah highlighted plans for balanced infrastructure development. The government aims to improve logistics, mobility, and access to utilities between the East and West Coasts through strategic projects like the East Coast Rail Link.

Akmal Nasrullah noted that the East Coast Rail Link is expected to enhance logistics connectivity and promote industrial growth in the region. Additionally, efforts to strengthen the food supply chain include projects such as the Tok Bali Integrated Fisheries Park and the Rompin Integrated Pineapple Plantation Development. New tourism attractions are also being developed, including the Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge and Cherating Turtle Sanctuary.