2026 Budget expected to offer relief for M40 while sustaining B40 support- Expert
Beyond direct subsidies, policies such as tax reliefs, affordable housing initiatives, childcare support and skills development can provide the M40 group with meaningful relief while still maintaining strong support for the B40
NUR ADNIN MAHALIM
SHAH ALAM – Targeted support in Malaysia's 2026 budget is expected to ease pressures on the M40 group while ensuring stability and continued assistance for the B40 group, says expert.
Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Malaysian Academy of SME & Entrepreneurship Development Coordinator of the Student Entrepreneurship Centre Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said the budget was likely to reflect a more balanced approach.
He said it recognised the growing financial pressures faced by the M40 group.
“This budget is expected to be more inclusive of the M40 group, reflecting a balanced approach that recognises their growing financial pressures,” he told Sinar Daily.
Idham said relief for the M40 group should not only come in the form of subsidies.
“Beyond direct subsidies, policies such as tax reliefs, affordable housing initiatives, childcare support and skills development can provide the M40 with meaningful relief while still maintaining strong support for the B40,” he said.
Meanwhile, economist and policy specialist Dr Geoffrey Williams offered a different perspective noting limited indications that the M40 group will receive targeted support.
“For the moment there are no indications that the M40 will be targeted for help except as part of general programmes which aim to leave 80 to 85 per cent unaffected by subsidy rationalisation,” he said.
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!
