National Budget 2019 Commentary

Yayasan Hasanah commends the strong focus on the people’s socio-economic wellbeing in Budget 2019.

As an impact-based foundation that is currently working with over 40 civil society and partner organisations (CSPOs) nationwide, we welcome the government’s RM10mn allocation to Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Social Enterprises. This will help the organisations to build their capacity, increase their effectiveness and scale their impact meaningfully.

We are also pleased with the Government’s commitment to Education covering education assistance for less fortunate students, school infrastructure upgrades and programmes in polytechnic and community colleges. It will strengthen and complement further PPP investments in the Education sector.

On environmental protection and sustainability, the Government’s move to incentivise State Governments towards conserving and expanding existing natural reserves is commendable and we hope it will help reinforce the urgency of safeguarding of our forests biodiversity and ecosystem services.  In addition, the initiative to empower Orang Asli and Orang Asal communities to manage and protect the environment is timely.

Budget 2019 themed “A Resurgent Malaysia, A Dynamic Economy, A Prosperous Society” is the catalyst that inspires Malaysians to be a force for good. At Hasanah, we look forward to be a part of this aspiration in ensuring the overall wellbeing of Malaysians and the protection of our environment.