KKDW Will Continue To Focus On Comprehensive Rural Development Through Budget 2026 - Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) will continue to focus on comprehensive rural development through Budget 2026, which allocates RM12.4 billion, marking an increase of 3.69 per cent compared to the previous year.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the allocation would be utilised to strengthen the well-being of the rural population holistically through an inclusive approach.

"KKDW constantly considers the issue of the cost of living and focuses on the social safety net to improve the living standards and increase the income of the rural community," he said when appearing as a guest on the "Ruang Bicara: Merealisasikan Belanjawan 2026" (Implementing Budget 2026) programme produced by Bernama TV tonight.

He said one of the main focuses is strengthening basic rural infrastructure with an allocation of RM3.3 billion for rural road projects, clean water supply, electricity, and the installation of village streetlights, including solar energy.

"Although the amount seems large, its implementation needs to be done in phases according to the priority of the areas to ensure a more immediate impact," he said.

In addition, nearly RM2.4 billion is allocated to the Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA), the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA), and the Federal Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (FELCRA) to protect over 720,000 settlers and smallholders across the country.

Ahmad Zahid said this measure is to strengthen the economic resilience of smallholders through value-added and downstream activities, besides stabilising commodity prices.

He said KKDW is also focusing on rural digital development, including expanding 5G coverage and encouraging the involvement of young people and rural entrepreneurs in the digital economy.

"We want the rural community to become modern and competitive entrepreneurs, not just relying on traditional products. Online orders by rural entrepreneurs have now increased by about 35 per cent," he said.

According to him, MARA receives RM4 billion to strengthen its role in entrepreneur and education development, including RM50 million to upgrade 363 rural business premises and RM100 million for the Bumiputera entrepreneur scaling-up programme.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid said KKDW is also focusing on early childhood education with an allocation of RM70 million to supply smart televisions to 10,800 preschool, nursery (taska), and kindergarten (tabika) classes under the Community Development Department (KEMAS) nationwide.

He said the move is part of the government's efforts to introduce digital-based teaching methods as early as three to six years old to familiarise the younger generation with current technology.

Furthermore, he said the government is also strengthening the welfare of the Orang Asli community with an allocation of RM412 million this year, including efforts to upgrade basic infrastructure, education, housing, and social mobility.

Regarding disaster management, Ahmad Zahid said RM2.2 billion is allocated for the coordination of related programmes under various agencies, including the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS), and the Public Works Department (JKR).

He also emphasised the importance of early warning systems and the use of satellite and communication technology to reduce the risk of loss of life and property when a disaster occurs.

-- BERNAMA