Industrialisation, Urbanisation Transform Malaysia Into Modern, Complex Society

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 15 (Bernama) -- Rapid industrialisation and urbanisation have somewhat transformed the country into a modern and complex society, Deputy Finance Minister I Othman Aziz said. He said consequently, a variety of new social and welfare issues had emerged. Othman said the government was committed in addressing these issues as clearly spelled out in the 11th Malaysia Plan and 2016 Budget. "However, there are emerging challenges that demand crucial attention, rapid decision and implementation such as sustaining the effectiveness of delivery system, maintaining fiscal prudence and streamlining various source of data. "The well-being of the people (rakyat) can only be secured through the efforts of all parties in ensuring that the rakyat enjoys a better quality of life," Othman said in a statement following a series of focus group meetings on social and welfare issues which he chaired Monday. The meetings were following the 2017 Budget Consultation on June 16, 2016 chaired by Prime Minister Najib Razak. The statement said the Finance Ministry will further engage with relevant stakeholders to solicit inputs for consideration in the national Budget. The participants included representatives from the public and private sectors, universities, associations and non-government organisations, it said. -- BERNAMA