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So in case you missed it, the Federal Government Budget for 2024 just happened. If you’re like me, you probably didn’t pay much attention to it.
I’m sure to anyone who understands economics this is really interesting. But I always struggle to understand the effects of each allocation and my eyes just glaze over all the numbers.
This year’s budget feels a bit different though. Last year it was more focused towards economic recovery and helping those affected by the pandemic. Whereas this year it feels more robust and has some allocations which aim to improve our quality of life.
For the first time in a very long while I’m actually feeling optimistic. Here’s a few things from the 2024 Budget that has me looking forward to the New Year:
#1. Electric buses, new LRT stations, and electric charging stations
Source: FMT
Driving in Malaysia sucks, especially in the Klang Valley area. Whenever I had the option, I would always opt for public transport. Not only am I avoiding idiot drivers, but I’m also being more productive as I can work on my phone or catch up on my favourite shows.
However it can be very time consuming when compared to driving. When I was commuting to work in my last job, one of the biggest pain points was getting to the LRT station. If you don’t have family or friends to drop you off, you’re at the mercy of infrequent buses or ridiculous Grab price hikes during rush hour. By making more buses available it makes commuting by train a whole lot more reliable and attractive.
Everyday about 5 million road users go about their business around the Klang Valley, cussing at one another and fighting for parking. Even if only a fraction of them converted to public transport it would make the driving experience a little less painful.
#2. Putting a spotlight on arts, culture and entertainment
Source: FMT
Finally, we get to have some fun. For a country that prides itself on its cultural diversity, we sure don’t do enough to keep it alive.
I personally can’t remember the last time I went to a local film festival or art exhibit. Hopefully this will fix that and make art more accessible to the average Malaysian. And honestly I’m bored to tears of shopping malls already.
It’s also a relief to see what happened at last year’s Good Vibes Festival has not soured the government’s opinion on international artists. In fact they are encouraging them to drop in with a welcoming 10% on entertainment duties.
It remains to be seen if this will put Malaysia on more world tour lists but I’m looking forward to not always having to fly down to Singapore for concerts anymore.
#3. Safeguarding our rainforests
Source: FMT
Malaysia’s rainforest is estimated to be around 130 million years old. Which makes it older than the Amazon rainforest which is about 55 million years old.
Let that sink in for a moment. We beat the Amazon, the most popular natural landmark in the world.
In addition to housing hundreds and thousands of unique animal and plant species, it is one of our biggest moneymakers. Taman Negara alone attracts up to 100,000 tourists annually.
So even if you’re not a fan of the outdoors or National Geographic, you should make a big deal about environmental preservation, as it’s one of the biggest selling points for our tourism industry.
Speaking of tourism.
#4. Countdown to Visit Malaysia Year 2026
Source: FMT
Brace yourselves. The tourists are coming.
Now that the world is aching to travel again, our government is going big for the next Visit Malaysia campaign. In addition to the aforementioned boosts to arts, cultural and eco preservation, a further RM350 million is being allocated to woo international visitors.
As someone who has a background in marketing and advertising I’m excited to see what kind of creative approach they’re going to come up with.
In 2022, tourism brought in approximately RM28.23 billion and the government is aiming to attract 26.1 million for 2026. So the Ministry of Tourism has a big task ahead of them. Don’t let us down guys, we’re counting on you to put Malaysia on the world map again.
Is there anything that stands out to you about the 2024 Federal Budget?
Are you excited for the Malaysia Budget 2024?
Share your thoughts!
Submit your story to hello@inreallife.my and you may be featured on In Real Life Malaysia!
Read also: Top 10 Malaysian Reforms To Watch Closely In 2024
https://inreallife.my/10-malaysian-reforms-to-watch-closely-in-2023/
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