Kuala Lumpur: The government’s strategy to address the repercussions of retaliatory tariffs imposed by the United States on Malaysia is aimed at safeguarding the population, especially in rural areas, ensuring they remain resilient amidst global uncertainties, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid, who also holds the position of Rural and Regional Development Minister, emphasized that the establishment of the National Geo-Economics Action Centre (NGCC) by the MADANI government is a proactive measure to uphold national interests and maintain Malaysia’s global competitiveness.
Dr. Ahmad Zahid stressed the importance of addressing the challenges faced by rural communities due to global trade uncertainties. Many rural residents depend on sectors such as electronics, palm oil, rubber, and agriculture, with the US being a significant market for Malaysian exports. He expressed confidence in the government’s efforts to negotiate tariff reductions and explore new markets in regions like ASEAN, the Middle East, Egypt, Pakistan, and Cambodia as vital measures to protect the incomes and livelihoods of those affected.
He further highlighted the government’s swift actions, including a RM1 billion allocation to upgrade the borders of Sabah and Sarawak-Kalimantan and increasing procurement limits, which will expedite projects for schools, clinics, roads, and flood mitigation, creating more job opportunities for contractors and workers in rural areas.
As the chairman of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council, Ahmad Zahid noted that challenges in the electronics sector would influence the demand for skilled human capital. He committed to enhancing the country’s TVET institutions to foster international collaborations, particularly in AI, green technology, and digitalisation, prioritizing access to quality training for rural youths to boost their participation in high-value sectors.
Ahmad Zahid also pointed out Malaysia’s steady trajectory with a projected 5.1 percent GDP growth for 2024, a declining fiscal deficit, and stable inflation. The government remains dedicated to implementing reform agendas, including the New Industrial Masterplan 2030, the National Energy Transition Roadmap, and national digitalisation efforts, while preserving key principles such as Bumiputera rights and the protection of strategic sectors.
He urged national unity and cooperation to realize the reform agendas under the MADANI Economy framework, aiming to build a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Malaysia for future generations.