Three Months to Draft Mara Act Amendments, PM Tells Agency

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has issued a clear directive, calling on Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) to accelerate the process of amending its foundational Act. The urgency stems from a need to ensure Mara remains a potent force in uplifting the bumiputera community, a core mandate it has held for six decades.

Anwar's call for a three-month turnaround on the draft amendments underscores his commitment to swift action. He emphasized that with experts readily available, there is no justification for prolonged delays. This push for efficiency signals a desire to modernize Mara's operations and governance structures to better meet the evolving needs of the bumiputera populace.

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I hope the first draft, (even though) the Deputy Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi) has directed it to be ready before the end of the year. No need to wait. All these experts are in front of me, why wait for seven or eight months? Give me the draft within three months.

The ongoing efforts to amend the Mara Act 1966 are crucial for the agency's continued relevance and effectiveness. Mara, through its Chairman Datuk Dr. Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, has indicated that the amendment process is in its final stages, involving extensive consultations with various ministries and agencies. This collaborative approach aims to gather comprehensive feedback and ensure the revised Act is robust and well-aligned with national economic objectives.

From a Malaysian perspective, Mara has long been a cornerstone institution for the socio-economic advancement of the bumiputera. Any reforms to its governing Act are closely watched, as they directly impact educational opportunities, entrepreneurial support, and overall economic participation for a significant segment of the population. The Prime Minister's direct involvement and call for expedited action reflect the high stakes involved in ensuring Mara continues to fulfill its vital role effectively and efficiently.

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Mara is in the final phase of preparing the amendments to the Mara Act 1966 to ensure the agency remains relevant and is governed more effectively.