BUDGET 2017 COMMENT RHB Banking Group Group Managing Director, Datuk Khairussaleh Ramli

This budget has a special focus on inclusiveness, such as helping to manage rising cost of living and enabling home ownership among the new joiners to the job market. The affordable home ownership scheme announced by the government through PR1MA will enhance the eligibility of this group of the population to own a house, and RHB is honored to be able to be involved in this scheme.The Budget also bodes well for the business community with the various tax relieves and incentives which stimulate a robust SME sector. Meanwhile, maintaining fiscal discipline in the face of rising operating expenditure and challenging revenue outlook is commendable.  This will ensure that the country remains as a favourable investment destination for foreign investors.