13MP is bold yet pragmatic, say economists
UiTM Business Management Faculty senior lecturer Dr Mohamad Idham Md Razak said the 13MP sets a forward-looking agenda that prioritises high-value industries, sustainable development and economic reforms.
"With its 4.5-5.5 per cent growth target, the plan is attainable as long as Malaysia maintains its reform momentum and capitalises on the global recovery," he told Business Times.
Mohamad Idham said the government's efforts to curb inflation, strengthen fiscal discipline and upskill the workforce through targeted subsidies and prudent spending offer a strong foundation for shared prosperity.
"However, further enhancements to private investment incentives, climate resilience planning and bipartisan support will only improve the plan's overall effectiveness," he said.
Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Afzanizam Abdul Rashid described the 13MP as a "reasonably crafted" roadmap that reflects both aspiration and economic realities.
He noted that the government acknowledged headwinds such as geopolitical tensions and global tariff shocks, and has taken a more realistic stance.
"For instance, revising the compensation of employees (COE) target from 45 per cent under 12MP to 40 per cent now, which is closer to the current level of 33.6 per cent," he said.
"This shows pragmatism in policy setting, rather than overpromising," he said.
Universiti Malaya's International Institute of Public Policy and Management adjunct professor Tan Sri Dr Sulaiman Mahbob said the thrust of the 13MP lies in its focus on value creation, across public and private sectors, as well as in household and institutional planning.
"At its core, the 13MP is about maximising impact, ensuring every project, policy and partnership delivers real, measurable value to the people," Sulaiman said.
He stressed the need to strengthen the value chain, minimise leakages, and enhance implementation across the board.
"Whether from government or private sector planners, the focus must be on outcomes. That is how we create added value for the country and improve the rakyat's well-being," he said.
Putra Business School economist Prof Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff said the 13MP incorporates the core objectives of the Kerangka Ekonomi Madani while remaining agile enough to respond to uncertainties in the next five years.
"Even though the 13MP covers more areas than the 12MP, that is necessary for Malaysia to remain competitive and sustainable.
"Some of the targets are realistic, whilst some are a bit ambitious, but the monitoring system of MyRMK will ensure that any intervention can be made in a timely and structured manner," he said.
He added that diversified strategies will be critical in navigating external shocks and domestic challenges while upholding national priorities.
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