Civil society organisations are urging the government to table a more transparent and people-centred Budget 2026. Their calls focus on increased investment in healthcare and a stronger commitment to anti-corruption reforms. The new budget, set to be tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on 10 October, is expected to address these areas.

Bridging The Healthcare Gap

The National Cancer Society of Malaysia is pushing for fairer treatment of patients, particularly those with cancer. Its managing director, Dr Murallitharan Munisamy, highlighted the issue of patients moving from private to public hospitals, only to be charged for first-class wards. He described this practice as illogical and has called for its immediate abolition.

Munisamy also highlighted a significant gap in treatment subsidies that exist for young children. While school children aged seven and above receive fully subsidised cancer care, those under seven are still charged the full cost. The society is advocating for the Government to extend free cancer treatment to all children below the age of seven in public hospitals.

Strengthening Anti-Corruption Measures

In the realm of governance, the Center to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4) has called for greater financial allocations to bolster the fight against corruption. According to C4 chief executive officer Pushpan Murugiah, Budget 2026 must demonstrate a clear commitment to empowering the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) with sufficient funding and independence from political interference.

He also stressed the need for real-time audits on mega projects by the National Audit Department. To ensure accountability, C4 has urged for funding to protect whistleblowers, backed by robust legal safeguards, security measures, and financial support. Without proper budgetary allocations, Mr Murugiah stated, these anti-corruption initiatives will remain mere rhetoric.

Transparency And Financial Scrutiny

 According to C4, the budget must also address a significant gap in data transparency, freedom of information allows for public scrutiny by citizens, the media, and civil society groups. Mr Murugiah pointed out that digitalisation is meaningless if contract awards are still left to the discretion of ministers or politicians. He emphasised that funds must be allocated for independent oversight committees, ensuring public money is returned to the people and not captured as political capital.

What are your thoughts on the proposed reforms? Do you believe a greater focus on healthcare and anti-corruption measures is crucial for Malaysia’s future, and what specific changes would you like to see in the upcoming budget? Join the conversation and share your opinion.

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• budget 2026
• Graft Reforms
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