Development in rural areas does not solely rest on the shoulders of the federal government as state governments also bear equal responsibility in reducing the hardcore poverty rate, said Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Some state governments, he said, have been committed to developing rural areas, which has resulted in varying living standards among rural residents across states.
“Do not solely rely on the federal government. I am confident that rural areas can progress when state governments have their own income.
“The crucial point is not only providing basic infrastructure such as electricity and water, but other equally essential developments, including education.
“Emphasis on development is needed, and that is why there is coordination between various ministries and agencies (at the federal level) and state government departments,” Zahid said.
The rural and regional development minister told Bernama this in a special interview in conjunction with the recently concluded Bumiputera Economic Congress 2024.
He said over 8.7 million residents live in rural areas nationwide, with approximately 17.3 percent of the population classified as poor.
Zahid assured that the government is committed to aiding individuals in the poor and hardcore poor categories, and this is evident through the implementation of various programmes and the distribution of assistance.
He said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced several methods to tackle hardcore poverty last year, noting the annual increase in the poverty line’s income bracket.
“At one point, RM1,280 marked the threshold for hardcore poverty, but now, that figure has risen,” Zahid added.
Zahid highlighted the government’s focus on establishing a system aimed at improving the economic status of rural residents, particularly the bumiputera, to tackle poverty issues effectively.
“We will ensure that the system can help tackle poverty in rural areas, including through the provision of ‘ponds’ and ‘hooks’ to them,” he said in response to the presentation by the Sabah Bumiputera Socioeconomic Cluster chairperson Ramzah Dambu at the congress.
Ramzah pointed out that the challenges in Sabah differ somewhat due to infrastructure-related issues.
Amendment to Orang Asli Act
On the development of the Orang Asli community, Zahid said amendments to the Orang Asli Act aim to safeguard their rights and enhance their living standards.
He said engagement sessions are underway with relevant agencies, departments, the community, and related NGOs.
“Many Orang Asli individuals hold PhD and bachelor’s degrees and serve as professionals.
“In my opinion, even though there may be differences in perspective, we must engage with them to garner their valuable inputs for enhancing the overall well-being of the Orang Asli,” he added.
In 2023, he said that amendments to the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 (Act 134) would address issues related to land ownership, marriage registration, and the birth of Orang Asli children.
In the recent interview, Zahid said even though they have not received an official response yet on Act 134 amendments the matter has been discussed in meetings with menteris besar, garnering generally positive responses.
“However, there are some isolated issues that we need to address first before finalising the amendments to this Orang Asli Act,” he added.
Consider TVET
The deputy prime minister highlighted various priorities for uplifting the community’s living standards, with education being a key focus expected to bring transformative changes to their lives.
The education of Orang Asli children would also be strengthened through a strong emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to encourage more students to pursue university education, the National TVET Council Committee chairperson said.
“Last year, the Orang Asli Development Department aimed to enrol 300 Orang Asli children into universities, and as a result, over 400 qualified to continue their studies at that level.
“This year, I believe maybe 500 or more than 600 will enter university,” Zahid added.
- Bernama
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