KUALA LUMPUR: The Social and Economic Research Initiative (SERI) has praised the government's commitment to tackling inequality through the 2024 Budget.
However, SERI emphasizes the need for effective implementation of these policies.
In a statement, SERI highlighted certain refinements that could enhance the initiatives outlined in the 2024 Budget, announced on Oct13.
One allocation it focused on is the electric vehicle (EV) initiatives, which SERI believes fall short of being a transformative policy capable of comprehensively addressing sustainability and traffic congestion challenges.
SERI recommends framing the green policy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, particularly in the government sector, with the ultimate aim of transitioning to clean energy alternatives.
"To truly make a difference, net-zero emissions strategies must be seamlessly integrated with urban planning policies, ensuring a holistic approach that tackles environmental concerns and congestion issues simultaneously.
"SERI recognises the complexity of this issue given the country's reliance on vehicles and our longstanding issues with public transportation and last-mile connectivity."
Still, it emphasises the need for appropriate policy attention to prevent green initiatives from becoming isolated, underutilized, and poorly adopted.
While endorsing digitalisation initiatives for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, SERI underscores the importance of complementary efforts to enhance digital skills among local entrepreneurs.
It pointed out that some initiatives, such as the RM40 million allocation for Programme Shop Malaysia Online and the reduction of the capital allowances claim period for ICT equipment, lack comprehensive approaches that maximize their benefits.
SERI acknowledged the government's commitment to addressing inequality and sustainability through Madani values.
"However, we stress the vital importance of effective implementation, urging actions to align with rhetoric and bridge the gap between promise and reality."
SERI also commended the 2024 Budget's recognition of the financial struggles of the young people.
"The expansion of Dasar Peluang Kedua for those under 40 with debts below RM200,000 and the increase in Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) from RM350 to RM500 demonstrates the government's commitment to easing their financial burden and enhancing their quality of life.
"SERI also lauds the decision to limit public university fees to RM1,500 starting January 2024 and permit financially disadvantaged students to register for subjects without immediate payment.
"Coupled with the decision to provide an advance loan from the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN), offering RM1,500 for eligible prospective students, this move stands as a significant stride towards improving higher education accessibility for all deserving students"