IPOH: The People’s Income Initiative (IPR), aimed at increasing the income of lower-income groups, will continue as part of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), confirms Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli. This initiative is integral to the government’s strategy to combat poverty and enhance food security by providing job opportunities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rafizi detailed the continuation of the Agro Entrepreneur Initiative (IPR-INTAN), one of the three initiatives under the IPR. This initiative focuses on utilizing land resources provided by state governments to expand job opportunities. “The more land the state governments provide, the faster we can expand the initiative. I now see positive feedback from the people; they are starting to understand,” Rafizi stated following an engagement session with the Perak government.

Rafizi also emphasized the ongoing Food Entrepreneur Initiative (IPR-INSAN), which aims to offer food at affordable prices through innovative solutions like vending machines. This init
iative does not rely heavily on state governments, as the Ministry of Economy manages it. However, Rafizi highlighted the challenge of finding suitable locations for these machines, stating that many potential spots do not permit their installation.

The IPR also includes the Services Operator Initiative (IPR-IKHSAN) and was launched on February 26, 2023, to help increase income levels in response to the rising cost of living. Rafizi also addressed the Ageing Nation Agenda, identifying necessary improvements, particularly in legal frameworks, to establish a sustainable care economy. The 13MP will uniquely focus on this agenda, with the Economy Ministry set to present a White Paper on the subject in Parliament next year.