PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (Maicsa) has commended the government for tabling a progressive and reform-driven Madani Budget 2026 which underscores Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to good governance, institutional integrity and human capital empowerment.
Described as the “Rakyat’s Budget”, the fourth Madani Budget lays a strong foundation for inclusive and sustainable prosperity – rooted in the principles of accountability, transparency and equity – values that Maicsa has consistently championed in advancing the governance and professional education agenda, the institute said in a statement.
Maicsa welcomed the government’s continued emphasis on governance reform through structural initiatives such as the Public Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act 2023, the upcoming Government Procurement Bill 2025, and the expansion of digital governance tools including e-invoicing and MyDigital ID.
These reforms – combined with strengthened fiscal discipline and enhanced enforcement measures – represent a decisive step towards curbing leakages, restoring confidence in public institutions, and reinforcing Malaysia’s global competitiveness, it added.
“Good governance is not merely an administrative process – it is the bedrock of economic confidence, social justice and sustainable growth,” said president Datuk Akbar Moidunny.
“By embedding transparency, fiscal prudence, and institutional integrity at the heart of policymaking, the Madani Budget 2026 reinforces Malaysia’s credibility as a governance-driven economy. Maicsa stands ready to support this national agenda through professional development, policy dialogue, and continuous education in governance, ethics, and corporate responsibility.”
Maicsa lauds the government’s RM7.9 billion allocation for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and related initiatives that focus on upskilling, digital literacy and professional certification. This allocation reflects a deep understanding that Malaysia’s economic transformation depends on knowledge, adaptability, and lifelong learning.
“The government’s focus on human capital development is closely aligned with Maicsa’s mission to nurture competent, ethical, and future-ready professionals,” said Maicsa CEO Justin Anthony.
“As industries evolve, so must our workforce. Through the Chartered Governance Qualifying Programme (CGQP) and specialised training in governance, risk and compliance, Maicsa equips professionals to stay ahead, enhancing employability while contributing to stronger, more transparent organisations.”
He added that Maicsa will continue collaborating with universities, regulators and corporate partners to widen access to governance education, encouraging young Malaysians to pursue professional certifications that align with the nation’s upskilling and digital transformation agenda.
Justin further noted, “The Budget’s twin focus on governance reform and human capital development will directly benefit our members as organisations strengthen compliance and accountability standards. Maicsa will continue to empower governance professionals through lifelong learning, continuous professional development and strategic engagement initiatives.”
Maicsa also welcomed the government’s move to enhance the enforcement capacity of regulatory and oversight agencies, with over RM700 million allocated to strengthen capabilities in monitoring and compliance. This initiative, it said, will help ensure that rules and standards are applied fairly and consistently, reinforcing confidence in Malaysia’s governance ecosystem.
Stronger enforcement and institutional oversight are vital in ensuring that governance reforms translate into measurable outcomes – greater transparency, fair competition and improved integrity in both public and private sectors.
Maicsa said it firmly believes that governance and education are twin engines of national progress. Effective governance ensures accountability and trust, while education fuels innovation and resilience.
“Budget 2026 sets a clear direction: Malaysia’s renewal lies not only in economic expansion, but in the strength of its institutions and the calibre of its people,” said Akbar.
“Maicsa remains steadfast in advancing these twin pillars – governance and lifelong learning – in support of a Malaysia that is both prosperous and principled.”
