According to Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, Bumiputera ownership in public listed companies stood at just 7% as of 2022, representing 62 companies out of the 945 listed on Bursa Malaysia.

In terms of labour participation, the number of unemployed Bumiputeras totalled 387,800, or 61.5% of the national total of 630,400 as of 2022.

Notably, 70.8% of unemployed Bumiputeras are from the youth demographic, aged between 15 and 30 years.

“Based on the spirit of inclusivity, the unity government is committed to ensuring that the Bumiputera agenda continues to be prioritised in every national socioeconomic development plan. This will not deny the rights of other races, on the contrary, it is capable of benefiting all races in terms of the development and progress of the country,” Rafizi said in his opening speech.

“The Bumiputera community has the opportunity and potential to play a more meaningful role in new sectors and industries that have high added value, including the High Growth High Value (HGHV) industry,” he added.

Rafizi also emphasised that the Bumiputera Agenda Empowerment Unit (UPAB) in all ministries will be strengthened and tasked with implementing and closely monitoring PuTERA35 at both the ministry and agency levels.