PUTRAJAYA: The Bumiputera Economic Transformation Plan 2035 (PuTERA35) rolled out today will serve as a massive shift to spur Bumiputera development and make Malaysia a regional economic driver, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar, also the Finance Minister, said that as times change, the country needs a new plan to drive the Bumiputera agenda to greater heights.
"The country should be driven with a more convincing level of speed, but at the same time, must not leave anyone behind.
"The idea is that the economic drive should be done with the participation of all people without marginalising any ethnicity, tribe or territory across the country," he said when launching the PuTERA35 here today.
He said this would be done without sidelining other ethnic groups.
The involvement of all quarters, he said, was vital in developing the country, adding that "no role is too small."
He cited the example of the Covid-19 pandemic, where while doctors and nurses were key, those who played a role behind the scenes were also crucial.
"While acknowledging calls for faster progress, it is important to remain grounded in reality and ensure that this advancement does not marginalise any group," he said in his speech during the launch ceremony of PuTERA35 here today.
He said it was also crucial for policymakers to seek input from economists, political leaders, and civil servants to ensure effective policies and frameworks.
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.
It also aims to raise the status and dignity of Bumiputera in line with the aspirations of the Madani Economy: Empowering the People initiative and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (Agenda 2030) which will allow Malaysians to enjoy a better quality of life.
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.
The transformation plan aims to support Bumiputera growth and development, and enhance their role in Malaysia's socio-economic progress.
This includes ensuring that all segments of the Bumiputera community, including those from Sabah, Sarawak, and the Orang Asli, are resilient against future challenges.
Additionally, PuTERA35 seeks to boost Bumiputera participation in innovation, research, and development, as well as to strengthen their presence as a skilled workforce.
Detailed programmes and projects for each initiative, covering short-, medium- and long-term goals, will be provided by the relevant implementing agencies and coordinated by designated ministries.