SHAH ALAM, Sept 25 — The state government’s social development agenda next year should go beyond poverty eradication to focus on improving quality of life and overall well-being, said state executive councillor for women empowerment and social welfare Anfaal Saari.
This is based on input gathered from non-governmental organisations, government agencies, and the public during the 2027 Selangor Budget engagement session 2027 today.
“Based on the presentations and input we received from various stakeholders, I have summarised them and presented to the Menteri Besar (Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari) that our focus for 2027 must be about quality of life, and no longer just about poverty eradication,” she said.
Anfaal was speaking to Media Selangor after attending the session at the Selangor International Trade Centre.
The session also featured presentations by the Social Security Organisation on inclusive employment involving disabled people, gig workers, former prisoners, senior citizens, and vulnerable women, as well as by the United Nations Children's Fund on early childhood education.
She added that government intervention through social investment in these areas could generate broader economic returns while increasing women’s participation in the workforce.
Vulnerable women, particularly those in the informal sector, should be recognised as contributors to the economy, with greater support needed through financial assistance, institutional support, and incentives for organisations to provide childcare facilities.
“This will support working mothers and encourage the adoption of family-friendly workplace policies,” Anfaal said.
She noted that the state government should also strengthen the link between the Second Selangor Plan’s caring society agenda and workforce development, including through the care economy.
“When we talk about creating inclusive care and childcare centres, we are also creating opportunities for informal caregivers. We also need to look at employment opportunities for senior citizens and senior citizen activity centres to ensure no one is left behind,” Anfaal.
The 2027 Selangor Budget is scheduled to be tabled on November 13.
