Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak is confident that the measures and strategies introduced in the Budget 2006 will spur the country's economic growth.

"Overall, yes (enough), because government spending will go up by five percent, that's a good indication while infrastructure projects will be increased next year.

"In addition, some of the new initiatives including the RM2.5 billion for police quarters using the EPF (Employee Provident Fund) will definitely stimulate economy," he added

Najib was speaking to reporters after Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi tabled the budget in Parliament today.

The deputy premier said next year's budget gave a balanced consideration to all sectors, in both urban and rural areas, with emphasis given to the building of basic infrastructure.

He stressed that the budget is also balanced as it not only covers physical development but also emphasised on human capital development.

Reactions from ministers and deputy ministers

Rafidah Aziz (International Trade and Industry Minister)

I must stress that the private sector should have social responsibility. I urge them not to take advantage by increasing the prices, especially basic products. This is to show that you are with the government in making sure a stable economy.Then the poor will enjoy the benefits.

Ong Ka Ting (Housing and Local Government Minister)

The budget is business and people-friendly. I welcome the incentive given to developers to develop low-cost housings. I am also welcome the incentive for life-long learning. The decreasing deficit budget is a positive development.

Hishammudin Hussein (Education Minister)

I am more than satisfied and relieved with the allocation given to my ministry. Even when the government is taking efforts to reduce the deficit, the allocation warded to the ministry was not only retained but increased. What we have provided for education has never been compromised.

Jamaluddin Jarjis (Science, Technology and Innovation Minister)

It's a caring budget and besides that, it also builds the foundation of the future economy, the economy of biotechnology and strengthening information communication and technology (ICT). That's important. Besides being caring, strengthening the ICT industry for the economic future and putting a lot of money into research.

Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah (Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister)

The budget showed that our economy has moved from a product-based economy to a knowledge-based economy. We are now emphasising more on human resources development at all levels. My only concern is whether we are competent enough to upgrade the human resources although we have all the facilities.

Fu Ah Kiow (Deputy Higher Education Minister)

There are a lot of provisions for the poor, under-privileged and disabled. There are also provisions to alleviate the pressures of the rising cost. It's a caring budget. Some provisions to encourage the private sector are surprising such as the concrete measures to improve on quality of education and human capital development.