Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) has achieved a significant milestone by saving at least RM250 million through strategic expenditure adjustments, including the restructuring of various programmes. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that these savings will be redirected to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to aid in funding fuel subsidies for the public.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Minister in charge of KKDW, detailed that the savings were realized by downsizing promotional events, product exhibitions, and other programmes deemed to have minimal impact. He highlighted that a circular from the MOF had instructed all ministries to implement cost-saving measures, with KKDW taking proactive steps even prior to the directive. The ministry has been focusing on prioritizing infrastructure, water supply, electricity, and rural amenities over lower-impact programmes.

During a speech at the ministry's monthly assembly, Ahmad Zahid urged KKDW staff to embrace the National Rural Economy mindset, aiming to elevate incomes, broaden economic opportunities, and enhance the quality of life in rural communities. He emphasized the potential within rural areas, stating that they possess vast resources such as land, plantations, commodities, and strong social networks that, if organized into a cohesive ecosystem, could transform rural areas into a significant engine of national growth.