TSI calls for 2025 Budget to prioritise human capital devt, sustainable economic growth

THE Sarawak Initiatives (TSI) is calling for the 2025 Budget to prioritise human capital development and sustainable economic growth.

Its chairman Datuk John Tenewi Nuek said there is a need for investments in education, healthcare and infrastructure to improve the quality of life and promote innovation, job creation and fiscal responsibility.

He emphasised the importance of quality education from early childhood to postgraduate levels, and called for policies to address inflation and the rising cost of living by increasing the supply of basic necessities.

“Aside from the usual budget for public services, infrastructure investment and subsidies for low-income groups, a more important aspect is a budget that prioritises human capital development through quality education.

“Such development can begin from the early childhood stage to postgraduate education and training programmes that focus on development of personal strength for long term sustainable national prosperity,” he said in a statement.

Apart from that, John also urged for a shift toward empowering citizens through poverty eradication programmes, while gradually reducing subsidies.

He also proposed a non-partisan approach to the potential reintroduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), citing its potential as a stable revenue source but acknowledging the need to address concerns about inflation and household budgets.

“To effectively address the revenue needs of Malaysia’s government, we propose a non-partisan agreement on the reintroduction of the GST. This is crucial given the fiscal pressures we face, including national debt management and funding development projects.

“However, we must carefully consider the economic impact of reintroducing GST. While it could provide a stable revenue source, there are concerns about how it may affect consumer prices and potentially lead to inflation.

“Balancing the tax’s impact on the cost of living with the need for revenue stability is essential,” he said.

John also said that as public sentiment towards GST has been mixed, it’s important to communicate effectively and consider compensatory measures to address any concerns about its impact on household budgets.

“Furthermore, any decision to reintroduce GST will be influenced by political factors, including party positions and electoral prospects. The Sarawak Initiatives stands ready to assist in this process.”

He stressed the importance of effective communication and careful planning if the GST is reintroduced, with a focus on fairness and minimising administrative burdens for businesses.