Budget 2026: 7.96 Pct Increase In Allocation For KPN To Enhance National Unity

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 11 (Bernama) -- Allocations to the Ministry of National Unity (KPN) have increased by 7.96 per cent in the 2026 Budget, reflecting the government's commitment to continue strengthening unity as the foundation of investor confidence, political stability and economic progress.

Minister of National Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said KPN received a total of RM767,993,300 compared to RM711,346,800 in 2025.

He said the allocations included RM650,476,100 for Operating Expenditure (OE) and RM117,517,200 for Development Expenditure (DE).

"This budget is in line with KPN's 2026 direction, namely nation-building as the main thrust in strengthening national unity and harmony in Malaysia.

"Through the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), KPN has also formulated 21 proposed nation-building initiatives that are very important for Malaysia as a multi-religious, multi-racial and multi-cultural country," he said in a statement here today.

Aaron said the seven main unity initiatives among the special initiatives announced were RM55 million allocated for the implementation of the Unity, National Integration and Harmony programme to foster the spirit of unity and the identity of the people.

In addition, RM55 million was to strengthen the role of Kawasan Rukun Tetangga (KRT) as a link to social networks in the community, RM46 million for the construction of three new unity activity centres, namely the Bukit Besar Unity Complex in Kuala Terengganu, the Bandar Seri Iskandar Unity Activity Centre in Perak, and the Miri Unity Activity Centre in Sarawak.

Other initiatives include RM5 million provided as initial matching grant funds to encourage the involvement of the corporate sector, philanthropists and heritage experts in rejuvenating the National Museum, RM20 million for the improvement of early childhood education facilities for unity nationwide.

In addition, Aaron said the Textile Museum at Menara Merdeka 188 was opened as an effort to highlight the textile heritage of the Malay world and tax deductions for individuals and corporate companies who contribute in cash to the Malaysian Museum Department Trust Account.

"With this clear direction, KPN will continue to be a leader in building a harmonious, inclusive and universal value-based Malaysian society that supports the spirit of MADANI Malaysia," he said.

-- BERNAMA