Malaysia MADANI, More Than Just A Slogan - Budiman

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 7 (Bernama) -- Malaysia MADANI is more than a political slogan; it is a framework to ease public anxiety, restore trust, and promote daily well-being, said the Community Communications Department (J-KOM) Strategic Adviser Datuk Dr Budiman Mohd Zohdi.

He said the MADANI philosophy was created to address rising challenges, including cost-of-living pressures, security, misinformation, and social media-driven changes in communication.

“In simple terms, people want to feel safe, earn a living, and take pride in being Malaysian.

“MADANI seeks to address these needs based on today’s realities, not as a mere slogan,” he said as a guest on Bernama Radio’s Jendela Fikir: MADANI-Memahami Teras, Merasai Manfaat programme this morning.

Budiman said the MADANI pillars closest to the people are well-being and compassion, seen in initiatives such as MADANI Rahmah Sales, cash aid, and BUDI 95.

He said the new approach shows the government is listening to public feedback and adjusting policies within its financial means.

“When certain groups feel existing aid is insufficient, the government reviews and adjusts policies, showing they are dynamic and evolving rather than fixed,” he said.

Commenting on public understanding of the MADANI concept, Budiman said awareness is rising, though urban and rural perceptions still differ, adding that understanding can be reinforced by comparing changes before and after a policy is introduced.

He also urged the public to handle information responsibly, especially on social media, to prevent the spread of misleading content that could erode trust in institutions and the government.

“In a democracy, criticism is necessary but must be respectful, fact-based, and accompanied by solutions. We are bound by the Constitution and Rukun Negara, including the principles of courtesy and morality,” he said.

Budiman stressed that the success of the MADANI framework relies not just on government communication agencies, but on all ministries and citizens working together to build a healthy national communication ecosystem.

“Decisions are important, but so is the process. If everyone plays their part, MADANI will remain relevant today and in the future,” he said.

-- BERNAMA