Toward Equality: How Malaysian Budget 2025 Can Support OKU Entrepreneu

As Malaysia prepares for Budget 2025, there is a unique opportunity to align with the vision of OKU empowerment, particularly in entrepreneurship, employment, and social inclusion. Here’s what I expect from the upcoming budget:

1. Expanding Employment Opportunities for OKUs

The 2025 budget should prioritize increasing employment opportunities for OKU individuals, especially in sectors that offer flexibility and inclusivity. This could involve providing subsidies, incentives for companies that hire OKUs, making workplaces more accessible and equitable.

2. Better Taxation Incentives for Companies Hiring OKUs

Drawing from best practices in developed countries like the UK and Germany, Malaysia should introduce tax incentives for companies that employ OKU individuals. In the UK, the Access to Work program offers employers financial support, while Germany provides wage subsidies for meeting OKU employment quotas. Similarly, Malaysia could introduce tax deductions or financial grants to encourage businesses to hire and retain OKUs, promoting a more inclusive workforce.

From left: Ameer Safone CEO, Amirul Safuan, Steven Sim, Minister of Human Resources & Mehdi Hasan, CEO of Zeteo

3. Inclusive Insurance and Takaful Coverage

One of the biggest gaps in supporting OKU individuals is the lack of adequate medical coverage. Despite physical disabilities, many OKUs are capable of contributing to the workforce. However, they struggle to obtain insurance coverage due to their disabilities to battle the medical inflation crisis. According to recent statistics, 15% of disabled Malaysians are engaged in employment, yet face challenges in securing health insurance. The 2025 budget should incentivise insurance and takaful providers to offer more comprehensive medical coverage for OKUs, ensuring their financial security.

4. Supporting OKU Entrepreneurship

Key proposals for OKU entrepreneurship include:

Targeted Entrepreneurship Programs: Introduce entrepreneurship training and mentorship programs tailored for OKU individuals, helping them overcome barriers and build sustainable businesses.
Inclusive Financing Options: Provide better access to grants, and venture capital for OKU entrepreneurs, focusing on inclusive business models that promote equity and social mobility.
Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between government bodies and private companies, including brands like Ameer Safone, to create visibility and market access for OKU entrepreneurs. This will promote social inclusion and encourage diverse representation in Malaysia’s business landscape.

Conclusion: A More Inclusive Future

Malaysia’s Budget 2025 has the potential to lay the foundation for a more inclusive, equitable society. By focusing on OKU employment, entrepreneurship, and healthcare access, the government can drive economic growth while ensuring that no one is left behind. At Ameer Safone, we believe in creating a world where everyone’s potential is recognized and celebrated. This budget should prioritize those values, making Malaysia a leader in social inclusivity.

#Budget2025
#OKUEmpowerment
#InclusiveEconomy