Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) and its agencies are undertaking measures to assist the population in confronting the global supply crisis and current economic hardships by reducing rental rates of business premises, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid emphasized that these efforts align with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's directives and KKDW's dedication to bolstering the National Rural Economic Agenda. This agenda adopts a comprehensive and responsive approach aimed at enhancing the well-being of individuals, fostering rural entrepreneurship, and bolstering the rural economy.
Ahmad Zahid, who also holds the position of Minister of Rural and Regional Development, highlighted that KKDW has achieved savings of at least RM250 million without impacting rural development project funds. These savings stem from spending adjustments and efficient programme restructuring, and will be redirected to the Ministry of Finance to support the nation's fuel subsidy requirements.
Further elaborating, Ahmad Zahid noted that MARA has agreed to reduce rental rates by up to 20% for 7,135 business premises nationwide, alleviating the financial burden on entrepreneurs and traders. Similarly, the Penang Regional Development Authority (PERDA) is offering rental discounts of up to 20% for over 400 premises, with minimum rental rates starting at RM100 per month to support the cash flow of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
In addition, the Kedah Regional Development Authority (KEDA) is implementing rental reductions of 10 to 20% for 355 premises under its jurisdiction. Meanwhile, the Central Terengganu Development Board (KETENGAH) has agreed to a 20% rental reduction for 552 units of KETENGAH business premises, aimed at easing the financial strain on entrepreneurs and traders.
Ahmad Zahid expressed confidence that these initiatives will bolster the economic resilience of the populace and rural entrepreneurs in navigating current challenges. He affirmed KKDW's commitment to expanding initiatives that offer direct benefits to the people, ensuring sustainable, inclusive, and resilient rural economic development.