Accra:The Ministry of Rural and Regional Development has received RM12.68 billion under Budget 2027 to enhance rural infrastructure, improve basic amenities, and elevate living standards.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the allocation includes RM7.83 billion for development expenditure and RM4.85 billion for operating costs, addressing infrastructure, education, skills, economic development, and community well-being.

Significant portions of the budget are earmarked for rural road projects (RM2.3 billion) and basic rural infrastructure (RM3.3 billion), which covers clean water and electricity supplies, village street lighting, and solar-powered lights. Efforts to expand 4G coverage to all Orang Asli villages are also slated to continue, with completion aimed for 2027.

The Department of Orang Asli Development will receive RM445 million for various initiatives, such as a 100-bed hostel in Kinta, Perak, preschools in Kampung Angkek and Pos Belatim in Gua Musang, Kelantan, and a replanting project at Pos Poi, Sungai Siput, Perak.

To bolster the rural economy, the government plans to support the redevelopment of hawker centers and stalls managed by Majlis Amanah Rakyat, along with the Tamu Desa initiative in Sabah and Sarawak. More than 300,000 rubber smallholders are set to benefit from an increase in the Rubber Production Incentive to RM3.30 per kilogram, along with a monthly subsidy of RM400.

The ministry also highlighted RM8 billion in Technical and Vocational Education and Training programs across various ministries, including training and placement for 1,000 Bumiputera youths in high-growth sectors. Additionally, RM10 million has been allocated through GIATMARA to repair electrical wiring in 20,000 homes belonging to low-income families.

The ministry emphasized that implementation and monitoring will be prioritized to ensure these allocations lead to improved facilities, services, and tangible benefits for rural communities.