KUALA LUMPUR: The Economy Ministry has allocated RM805.2 million, or 67.8 per cent of its development expenditure, to six less-developed states under the 2027 Budget to narrow regional development gaps.
Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the allocation would stimulate economic opportunities and promote more balanced growth across the country.
The six states are Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak and Terengganu.
He said the ministry also allocated RM813.8 million, or 38.4 per cent of its development expenditure, for programmes and projects directly benefiting the people.
“Priority is given to community infrastructure development, income-generating opportunities, human capital development and entrepreneurship, as well as business opportunities and economic mobility,” he said.
He was winding up the debate on the Supply Bill 2027 at the committee stage in the Dewan Rakyat.
Akmal Nasrullah said the ministry was allocated RM645.44 million for operating expenditure and RM2.12 billion for development expenditure under the 2027 Budget.
He said development expenditure increased by 11.9 per cent compared with 2026, covering 131 projects comprising 41 new projects and 90 ongoing projects.
Of these, 41 projects would be implemented across four economic corridor regions, including five new projects and 36 ongoing projects.
The Northern Corridor Implementation Authority would oversee 18 projects worth RM193.6 million, while the East Coast Economic Region Development Council would implement 13 projects worth RM214.8 million.
The Regional Corridor Development Authority would implement six projects worth RM201 million, while the Sabah Economic Development and Investment Authority would oversee four projects worth RM170.4 million.