Govt plans to expand transit system in urban areas

BUDGET 2025 | The government plans to expand the transit system, including railways and feeder buses, for urban communities in Budget 2025.

According to the Economic Outlook 2025 report released by the Finance Ministry today, the expansion aims to provide more efficient and reliable public transport, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility within cities.

“By enhancing urban transit systems, the government seeks to promote sustainable urban development, reduce carbon emissions, and improve the quality of life for urban residents by reducing travel time as well as improving safety and reliability.

“These efforts are part of a broader strategy to create a well-connected, sustainable, and economically vibrant nation that benefits businesses and the rakyat,” the ministry said.

According to the report, the government will also enhance inter-state mobility through projects such as the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), Central Spine Road (CSR), and the Pan Borneo Highway to boost economic activity.

Existing highways will continue to be maintained and upgraded to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, and promote tourism.

The ministry added that under Budget 2025, infrastructure investment focusing on innovative and cost-effective technologies will continue to be rolled out, particularly in remote areas.

It said this is in line with the government’s commitment to improve people-centric basic infrastructure by enhancing road access, treated water, and electricity supply in urban and rural areas.

“Rural development allocations will continue to be provided to address development disparities and improve dilapidated infrastructure.

“The government will also provide stable and affordable internet connectivity to enable the rakyat to benefit from digital technology, thereby widening access to socioeconomic activities, ensuring that no one is left behind,” it said.

Providing housing

The ministry also said Budget 2025 will continue to provide safe neighbourhoods with healthy living environments, ultimately contributing to a prosperous society.

It said attention will be given to ensuring inclusive housing solutions that benefit the elderly as well as marginalised and vulnerable groups, and this includes credit guarantee facilities for the purchase of houses built on waqf land.

“In addition, the government will continue prioritising the provision of well-integrated, sustainable, and liveable housing for the low-income group, apart from making homeownership more accessible for young civil servants,” the report read.

As improving the people’s well-being is one of the main deliverables under the Ekonomi Madani framework, Budget 2025 will enhance the social safety net and social insurance.

According to the report, the government will continue enhancing the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara), and Bantuan Awal Persekolahan (BAP) as well as expanding the Payung Rahmah Programme, Inisiatif Pendapatan Rakyat (IPR), and Sejahtera Komuniti Madani (Sejati Madani) to reduce the cost of living and help the people generate additional income.

“As Malaysia is now an ageing nation, Budget 2025 will further improve the social protection system for the elderly by enhancing healthcare services and promoting active social activities.

“The government will also facilitate senior communities to enhance lifelong learning opportunities and financial literacy. These measures aim to ensure the elderly have access to quality care, remain socially engaged, and lead fulfilling lives,” it said.

In ensuring the welfare of self-employed individuals and gig workers, the government aims to expand the Self-Employed Social Security Scheme under the Social Security Organisation (Socso) by strengthening related policies and laws.

- Bernama

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