Govt reaffirms commitment to rural development and poverty eradication at ASEAN meet

MALAYSIA has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing rural development and combating poverty during the 14th ASEAN Ministers Meeting on Rural Development and Poverty Eradication (AMRDPE) held in Bangkok today.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi represented Malaysia at the gathering, underscoring the nation’s efforts to foster more inclusive and resilient rural communities through innovation, community engagement, digitalisation, and expanded Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, which serve as key drivers for improving living standards.

“Malaysia is also investing heavily in rural infrastructure, including RM2.3 billion for 1,364 road projects and RM195.2 million to provide clean water to 5,000 households,” Ahmad Zahid said in a statement.

He added that RM162.9 million had been allocated to ensure stable electricity supply for 2,010 recipients, further supporting rural quality of life.

Highlighting the impact of housing initiatives, the Deputy Prime Minister noted that the People’s Prosperous Housing Programme (PPRS) had benefited more than 10,000 families through RM364.45 million in funding, enhancing living conditions across rural areas.

“The socio-economic development of rural communities continues to be strengthened through support for 55,400 entrepreneurs, particularly in digitalisation, enabling them to access wider markets across ASEAN,” he stated.

Ahmad Zahid also emphasised the Desa Kirana initiative, which promotes 25 agro and eco-tourism destinations, ensuring rural communities reap economic benefits from the tourism sector ahead of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign.

The initiatives reflect Malaysia’s multi-pronged strategy to integrate economic growth, technology, and community empowerment in rural development while contributing to ASEAN’s regional objectives of reducing poverty and improving livelihoods. - December 12, 2025