THE New Economic Policy (NEP) is being reviewed to be more merit-based, prioritising Bumiputeras in Sabah and Sarawak as well as marginalised Indians and Chinese, said Economic Affairs Minister Azmin Ali.

The affirmative action policy would be given new breath to include the other races, Azmin told reporters at the Parliament lobby today.

“We want to ensure that Bumiputeras get their rights but we also must be fair to all Malaysians. There are needs of the Indian community in plantations and rural areas. 

“Chinese businessmen also need to be given attention, help and government support. But Bumiputeras, including those in Sabah and Sarawak, need serious attention.

“That is why we want the economic distribution to be fair and just for all Malaysians.”

He said the Pakatan Harapan government will also review the 11th Malaysia Plan to include targets listed in the coalition’s manifesto.

Azmin, who is also the Gombak MP, said this would give the government a chance to introduce new policies in its mid-term review in November.  

“Hopefully, part of it will be introduced in our mid-term review which will be presented in November.”

He also said the main focus of Putrajaya will be to regain international investors’ confidence in the Malaysian economy. 

“The greatest challenge for PH now is to restore investors’ confidence, it is so crucial.”

The NEP has come under fire from various quarters, with parties wanting to do away with the affirmative action to even the playing field. 

Businessman Robert Kuok in his memoirs last year criticised the affirmative action policy for helping Malays in education and business. – July 24, 2018.