KUALA LUMPUR, 27 October 2017 – Microsoft Malaysia welcomes the 2018 National Budget themed “Prospering an inclusive economy, balancing between worldly and hereafter, for the wellbeing of rakyat, towards the TN50 aspiration” which took a multi-pronged approach to creating and enabling an inclusive society. “This rakyat-centric Budget outlines initiatives to leverage the opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the digital economy, underscoring its contribution to the country’s GDP. Along with the recent announcement of “Cloud First” strategy, and creation of a National Artificial Intelligence (Al) Framework, these are steps in the right direction to bolster the country’s strategic ICT thrust,” said K Raman, Managing Director, Microsoft Malaysia.
“This is clearly in line with our mission to empower every person and every organization in Malaysia to achieve more. Over the past 25 years, we have been a trusted partner in Malaysia’s growth journey, and we remain fully committed to working closely with the Government, businesses, and civil society, to leverage Industry 4.0 as we continue on this digital transformation journey.”
Strengthening the Digital Economy
A key touch point of the 2018 Budget is fortifying the Digital Economy, and implementation of the Malaysia Digital Policy will pave the way to strengthen it further. This complements the Prime Minister’s recent announcement of a Cloud First strategy which will be introduced to national agenda, beginning with the public sector.
“This is a very exciting time for Malaysia, as a growing digital economy needs a strong support structure and ecosystem to thrive. As businesses in Malaysia look for better and faster ways to leverage on the fourth industrial revolution and transform themselves, modern technologies such as cloud computing have a crucial role to play. We laud the government’s initiatives in this direction that will set the country apart as a key differentiator,” Raman added.
The budget also pays attention to the upgrade of ICT equipment and communications systems which would be crucial for a strong digital infrastructure for our businesses. Additionally, rebate on the purchase of ICT equipment and software development will lower the barrier to entry for the adoption of digital technology among SMEs and corporates, especially as we continue to advance digital workforce as a national agenda.
Inclusive Education and Empowering Human Capital
We are heartened and encouraged by the forward-looking initiatives in Budget 2018 that focus on future proofing the economy and empowering education, skill and talent development in the country, with an allocation of RM61.6 billion.
Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak highlighted the need for transformation in the Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) to enhance the skills of our workforce. The creation of TVET Malaysia and grants towards the TVET Masterplan are a step in this direction.
This continued drive for quality education is commended by Microsoft Malaysia. Raman said, “At Microsoft, we are committed to leveraging technology’s role as an enabler, in providing 21st century education. We continue to partner the Government to enhance digital literacy and upskilling opportunities via coding, training of teachers and equipping students with the digital skills required to compete globally,” said Raman.
Enabling Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
Realizing the significant contribution of the SMEs in the nation’s growth and labor market, the Government has allocated RM200 million for training programmes, grants and soft loans for SMEs.
Microsoft Malaysia congratulates the Government on their progressive approach in implementing these programs, which would enhance the advancement of SMEs. “SMEs account for the majority of business establishments in Malaysia. As the backbone of our economy, it is important that we create an enabling environment, allowing SMEs to harness the transformational opportunities offered by technology and training. The budgetary allocations will provide the necessary innovation and advance solutions for SMEs to improve their competitiveness within the industry,” said Raman.
Ensuring Unity and Economic Growth, Inclusive Prudent Spending, Wellbeing of the Rakyat
Microsoft Malaysia welcomes the initiatives under the 2018 National Budget, which prioritize the bridging of the opportunity divide, particularly for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and children.
“We look forward to continued collaboration and partnership with the Government, as we promote inclusivity, ensure equal opportunities, and deliver on our commitment to drive economic growth, innovation and societal impact in Malaysia,” concluded Raman.