SEREMBAN: Empowering women, expanding the agriculture sector and building up the youth are among the pledges by Perikatan Nasional under the state manifesto.
Bersatu deputy president Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu said the manifesto would focus on several main tenets, including business training for women and youths, as well as expanding the farming and agriculture sectors.
“Among the most important pillars is championing the cause of women.
“We will introduce a RM1mil incubator grant for women entrepreneurs and Inisiatif Ibu Prihatin Nismilan, which comes with a 10% subsidy in costs for giving birth.
“We will also foster partnerships with state government agencies and the private sector to add more childcare facilities to help working families,” he said during the online launch of the manifesto yesterday.
Ahmad Faizal said initiatives to help women who lost their husbands or have just separated would also be provided in the form of aid and counselling.
On assisting the youth, Perikatan plans to create the Nismilan Mudo and Tani Mudo funds with combined allocations of up to RM2mil yearly and that it will include e-commerce training.
Subsidies for B2 motorcycle licences worth RM300 for first-time holders would also be given to spur the gig economy in the state.
“We plan to build the e-sports scene in each district with an allocation of RM1mil a year.
“For the education sector, among the highlights include a RM2mil allocation to improve the facilities of religious schools.
“In addition, a 20% subsidy for school bus fares will be given and a RM100 subsidy for each child under the Integrated Special Education Programme,” he said.
To combat cost of living issues, Ahmad Faizal said Bantuan Bakul Prihatin would be expanded.
He added that allowances for community leaders, including Imam and Bilal, would also see an increase in stages.
“We will optimise the use of idle customary land for several farming activities to help generate additional income,” he said.
A farming centric scheme called TaNismilan will be introduced with a RM5mil allocation.
A one-stop agency in each district will also be built to combat poverty, as well as address social issues and provide legal aid and support in finding employment.
Other highlights of the state manifesto include a RM5mil allocation to spur the tourism sector and an investment of RM15mil to improve road safety and expand free WiFi coverage.
