Anwar announces strategic reuse of vacant government properties in Malaysia's Budget 2025
He said the aim is to repurpose these unused resources for preschools, daycare centres, and skill training centres.
SHAH ALAM —In a significant move to optimise resources, Finance MinisterDatuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced plans to review all vacant properties owned by government agencies, Government-Linked Investment Companies (GLICs), and Government-Linked Companies (GLCs).
Anwar, who is also the Prime Minister, said that the aim is to repurpose these unused resources for preschools, daycare centres, and skill training centres.
"The government will review all vacant spaces and buildings owned by government agencies, GLICs, and GLCs to ensure that these unused resources are utilised for preschools, daycare centres, and skill training centres.
“The Special Task Force on Agency Reform (STAR) team will be overseeing this effort," he said during the presentation of the Malaysia Madani Budget 2025 in the Dewan Rakyat on Friday.
Anwar highlighted the importance of using public funds effectively, noting that the government acts as a trustee of the people's money.
He also revealed that a recent trip for 68 officials to an exhibition in Berlin, Germany, was cancelled, with the funds redirected to expand various aid programmes for the public.
Anwar said that while the savings might seem small, they could have a meaningful impact when used to benefit the people.
"This directive has been extended and must be taken seriously by all government entities, including ministries, departments, agencies, companies, and statutory bodies," he added.
Further addressing resource optimisation, Anwar instructed that diplomatic offices and agencies abroad be evaluated. The Public Service Department (JPA) and Wisma Putra have identified that 64 out of 126 foreign offices are not operating under a unified system.
As a result, he said the government has decided that these operations should be relocated to the Chancery Office or merged with nearby offices to reduce costs and maximise resources.
Among the government's digital transformation efforts, the focus will be on MyDigital ID, a single government application that centralises agencies like PADU, the Road Transport Department (JPJ), and the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN).
"The government continues its efforts to enhance the functionality and user experience of MyDigital ID," Anwar added.
Another key initiative includes allocating a portion of the revenue from special vehicle registration numbers to assist those in need. This includes covering the cost of motorcycle licences for 15,000 underprivileged youths, including secondary school students, university students, and young job seekers.
Additionally, Anwar said that the government will subsidise flight tickets for 60,000 underprivileged students, especially from Sabah and Sarawak, to help them return to their hometowns.
Furthermore, the initiative includes distributing free helmets to 67,000 underprivileged families to ensure the safety of their children.
