adminKUALA LUMPUR, Feb 5 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reaffirmed that education remains the most powerful equaliser in Malaysia’s development agenda, with more than RM84 billion allocated under Budget 2026 to strengthen education and training reforms.
He said the allocation reflects not only the government’s financial commitment but also its strong resolve to promote flexibility, mobility and lifelong learning, in line with changing labour market demands.
“These reforms respond to a labour market already in transition, where skills must be renewed, careers evolve, and workers require support across different stages of life. Education today must equip Malaysians not only with knowledge, but with adaptability, resilience and the confidence to navigate change,” he said.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, was speaking at the Malaysia Economic Forum 2026 held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre today, as reported in Bernama.
Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Economy Minister Datuk Seri Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.
The Prime Minister said the education and training reforms are designed to support workers as careers evolve and as skills require continuous renewal.
He noted that artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping industries and employment patterns, making preparedness a critical factor in determining whether technology expands opportunities or deepens inequality.
Anwar also stressed the importance of broad-based growth, saying regional development, support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and higher-value tourism services are essential to ensuring long-term economic resilience.
He added that prosperity must be accompanied by security in necessities, including healthcare, housing and preparation for an ageing society, which are fundamental to social stability and dignity.
The Malaysia Economic Forum 2026 brings together policymakers, business leaders, investors and industry experts to advance the country’s socio-economic agenda under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (2026–2030), with a focus on high-growth and high-value industries, inclusivity, sustainability, artificial intelligence, future-ready talent and the energy transition.
