Budget 2027: Focus on cost of living, economic opportunities

KUCHING, Oct. 6: Budget 2027 to be presented in the Lok Sabha on Friday is not only expected because of measures to address the cost of living but also hopefully will open more opportunities for people to improve their economic capacity in the long run.

For the institute of higher learning (IPT) plaintiff, Dea Emelina Muhd Hassan Jong, government support is important to ensure that rising living costs do not affect students' focus on education.

"As an IPT plaintiff, I hope that the government can pay more attention to the cost of living of students as many expenses have to be covered such as transportation, food, housing and learning needs.

"In addition to educational assistance or allowances, I also hope more opportunities for industrial training and career programs can be provided so that we can build the necessary skills before entering the world of employment", he told TVS today.

Meanwhile, private sector employee Nursafirah Jumel said that opportunities to increase income and skills are among the things that need to be addressed as the cost of living is challenged.

"As a private sector employee, I hope that Budget 2027 can pay attention to the cost of living and at the same time help increase people's purchasing power.

"In addition to the help that can reduce daily expenses, I hope more training and skills development opportunities are provided so private workers have the opportunity to increase their income and develop in their careers", he said.

In the meantime, civil servant Azuriani Khairul Hisyam hopes that welfare aspects will continue to be taken into account especially with regard to daily expenses such as housing, health and transport.

"As a civil servant, I hope that Budget 2027 can pay more attention to the cost of living issue.

"If facilities such as housing, health and transport could be improved or provided at a more affordable rate, it would help to reduce the financial burden", he explained.

All three of them also view aid as targeted and tailored to the needs of each important group, but at the same time more opportunities need to be provided to help people build their self-empowerment.

From education, employment to welfare, the aspiration reflects people's expectations of a Budget 2027 approach that not only relieves current burdens but also helps improve economic capacity in the long run.

For the record, Budget 2027 is scheduled to be presented by Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at 3.30 pm on October 9.

The government has previously stated that Budget 2027 emphasizes efforts to alleviate the burden of living conditions, increase incomes and create quality employment opportunities.