By Mohd Khairy Abdullah @ DG Henry
TONGOD (Sabah, Malaysia), October 11, 2025 — The Women’s Wing of UPKO Malaysia has described the Madani Budget 2026 as a clear manifestation of the political courage and social empathy of the government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim — particularly in addressing the needs of women and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
UPKO Women’s Chief, Mohina Sidom @ Mohina Ronnie Sidom, said this year’s budget reflects the Madani government’s determination to strengthen social justice through a comprehensive and inclusive approach, in line with the Malaysia Madani values of compassion, empathy, and shared prosperity.
“The allocation to assist 5,000 underprivileged single mothers who require legal aid in divorce and child custody cases proves that the Madani government truly listens to the voices of marginalized women. This is not merely welfare, but an acknowledgment of women’s rights and dignity within the justice system,” said Mohina.
She added that the initiative positions Malaysia as a progressive nation upholding gender equality and respecting the role of women in building a fair and humane modern society.
As a Board Trustee of Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), Mohina also welcomed the RM230 million increase in AIM’s financing, calling it a strategic boost to strengthen rural women’s economic participation.
“This additional funding will bring new hope to thousands of micro women entrepreneurs to remain competitive. In Sabah alone, the initiative is expected to benefit more than 52,000 AIM members — most of whom are women running small enterprises to support their families. This is real economic empowerment that directly improves lives,” she said.
Mohina also lauded the government’s move to introduce a monthly allowance of RM150 for 150,000 PWD students, describing it as a bold step towards ensuring inclusive education and reducing the burden on families with special-needs children.
“The Madani government demonstrates a strong commitment to leaving no one behind. This is not just a welfare policy but a symbol of national social responsibility,” she stressed.
Overall, Mohina viewed the Madani Budget 2026 as one that not only builds the economy but also refines the social conscience of the nation — making Malaysia a fairer, more inclusive, and people-centered country.
“This is the true spirit of Malaysia Madani — when progress is measured not merely in numbers, but in how far every citizen, especially women and the vulnerable, can feel equality and opportunity,” she concluded.
