KUALA LUMPUR: More integrated involvement from government-linked companies (GLCs), government-linked investment companies (GLICs) and private companies, whether Bumiputera or non-Bumiputera, was among the various improvements implemented in the recently rolled-out Bumiputera Economic Transformation Plan 2035 (PuTERA35).
Deputy Economy Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib said that compared to the previous Bumiputera development agenda, PuTERA35 also gives special focus to all levels of Bumiputera society, including those in Sabah and Sarawak, Orang Asli, and even minority non-Bumiputera-groups in need.
"PuTERA35 also sets goals and targets to elevate the Bumiputera community in various socio-economic aspects, not focusing solely on equity ownership," she said in response to Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (PN-Pagoh).
Muhyiddin inquired about how the government can ensure the effectiveness of the new direction for Bumiputera economic development under PuTERA35, which continues the work of the Bumiputera Development Action 2030 (TPB2030) and the Shared Prosperity Vision (WKB 2030) introduced by the previous government.
Hanifah added there are several improvements to the implementation and monitoring processes introduced under PuTERA35.
"First, the establishment of a Bumiputera Agenda Empowerment Unit (UPAB) in each ministry to implement and closely monitor the efforts of PuTERA35.
"Second, the development of the PuTERA35 Dashboard to facilitate and monitor the implementation and evaluation of results up to 2035 in a more systematic way."
Hanifah said, "At the highest level, the Bumiputera Economic Council (MEB), chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is fully responsible for the implementation and monitoring of PuTERA35.
"MEB consists of cabinet members, including non-Bumiputera ministers, representatives from the Sabah and Sarawak state governments, as well as representatives from GLCs and GLICs.
"The council is assisted by two main committees; the MEB Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu) committee and the MEB working committee."
Anwar, during the launch of PuTERA35 on Aug 19 said it would serve as a massive shift to spur Bumiputera development and make Malaysia a regional economic driver.
Anwar, also the Finance Minister, said that as times change, the country needs a new plan to drive the Bumiputera agenda to greater heights.
PuTERA35, bearing the theme 'Penyertaan, Pemilikan dan Penguasaan (3P) Bumiputera yang lebih bermakna' (Meaningful Bumiputera Participation, Ownership and Mastery), was designed to enhance the value of Bumiputera contributions by fostering a more productive and integrated approach.
The plan is supported by three thrusts, 12 drivers, and 132 comprehensive and ambitious initiatives designed to advance Bumiputera development and position Malaysia as a regional economic leader.