Malaysia’s Budget 2018 is a step in the right direction for the nation’s digital journey thanks to the great emphasis on efforts to digitise the manufacturing sector. This marks the country’s pivotal shift from a labour-driven economy to a more knowledge-driven society. The rise of the fourth Industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) is definitely upon us. 

“With the measures under Budget 2018, Cisco believes that Malaysian manufacturers will be better positioned to capitalise on the upcoming opportunities brought upon by digitisation. In its nascent stage, the combination of tax reliefs and grant allocation Smart Manufacturing facilities will incentivise more manufacturers to adopt new technologies such as automation, Big Data Analytics and robotics,” Albert Chai, Managing Director, Cisco Malaysia.

Budget 2018 reflects the Government’s sensitivity towards the Rakyat, through caring yet practical policies, particularly for the B40 and M40. 

Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz, Group Chief Executive, CIMB Group notes that focus on bread-and-butter issues, like reducing income tax for the lower income group, increasing assistance for basic food and transportation items and providing more allocation for affordable homes will go a long way towards ensuring the Rakyat’s short- and long-term interests.

Malaysia's 2018 budget reflects the Government's focus on innovation, digitization, smart manufacturing and propelling the nation towards becoming a key player in The Fourth Industrial Revolution, said Nick Lim, Vice President, ASEAN and Greater China, CA Technologies.

“We are excited about the proposed measures that translate to greater opportunities for Malaysian businesses and organizations to help evolve and navigate the digital economy.”