GEORGE TOWN, December 12 – Malaysia is on course to achieve developed nation status by 2027, supported by robust economic growth and strategic initiatives under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), said Economic Affairs Minister Rafizi Ramli.
Speaking at an engagement session in Penang, Rafizi emphasized the importance of achieving high-income status, which requires a gross national income (GNI) per capita of USD14,000. He highlighted Penang’s role as a key economic driver, particularly in the electronics and electrical (E&E) sector.
Rafizi addressed concerns about federal funding allocation, noting that a GDP-based approach could risk fragmenting the federation. “If states expect allocations strictly based on GDP contribution, the federation will break,” he cautioned, explaining that federal investment prioritizes equitable growth to prevent overburdening regions like the Klang Valley and Penang with migration-driven infrastructure strain.
Despite prioritizing high-potential states, Rafizi assured that less-developed areas, including East Coast states, are receiving targeted investments to foster balanced growth. Rafizi also dismissed opposition claims of unequal funding distribution, citing substantial development projects in opposition-held states.
He urged economically advanced states like Selangor and Penang to be patient with their funding aspirations, emphasizing that the government must first address pressing infrastructure needs elsewhere. “We’ve never denied funding to opposition areas. Development must benefit all regions equitably,” he said.
