Changes For Next Year, What Awaits Malaysians In 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 31 (Bernama) -- The year 2026 is not just about new resolutions, but also requires the people be more aware and prepared to face various good changes from the cost of living, digital security to law enforcement that will have a direct impact on the lives of millions of people.
It also marks the beginning of the 13th Malaysia Plan, a five-year plan to determine the direction of the economy, society, and well-being of the people.
Here are some important things throughout 2026 that need attention:
School Session Returns in January: After having to start in March for almost three years following the COVID-19 pandemic, the academic calendar of national and government-aided schools will return to normal in January 2026.
For Group A states (Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu) the academic calendar starts from Jan 11 to Dec 31, while Group B states (Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya) start from Jan 12 to Dec 31.
These changes will certainly have a direct impact on family routines, students' academic preparation and the coordination of school and community activities.
Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026): The tourism sector is expected to receive a major boost through the organisation of VM2026 themed "Malaysia Truly Asia" and "Surreal Experiences", opening up opportunities for tourists to explore the country's culture, heritage and natural beauty.
Budget 2026 allocates more than RM700 million to boost tourism promotion, including RM500 million for the VM2026 Campaign and RM60 million for the Tourism and Cultural Events Promotion, Marketing and Organizing Incentive Fund.
VM2026 is also expected to provide economic spillovers to small traders, local entrepreneurs and rural communities through a large-scale tourism surge.
SSPA Phase 2 Salary Adjustment: Civil servants who opt for the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) will enjoy the Phase 2 salary adjustment scheduled for Jan 22.
Phase 2 involves a 15 per cent rate increase for the Implementation Group and the Management and Professional Group (P&P), as well as seven per cent for the Top Management Group (KPT).
The move, which is a continuation of the Phase 1 increase in 2024, is expected to have a positive impact on monthly income and household expenses.
People's Welfare: The government will once again channel the Basic Rahmah Contribution (SARA) of RM100 to 22 million people aged 18 and above in mid-February, involving a total allocation of RM2 billion to help prepare for Ramadan and the Chinese New Year celebration.
Digital Security: The country's digital space will also see major changes in 2026 when all Internet messaging and social media service providers with eight million or more users will be required to register as Application Service Provider Class [ASP(C)] License holders starting Jan 1 through the implementation of the Deeming Provisions of Section 46A of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
The regulatory measure aims to ensure that large-scale platforms operate within the legal framework in an orderly and effective manner, in addition to assuming clear responsibilities for the safety of users, especially children and families.
Along with this, the Online Safety Act (OnSA) will come into effect from Jan 1, emphasising consumer protection, controlling cyber fraud, exploitation and impersonation, including threats involving the misuse of artificial intelligence and deepfake technology.
Law Enforcement: The Community Service Order Act will come into effect on Jan 1 as an alternative to punishment, emphasising rehabilitation and social responsibility. Individuals who litter and spit in public places around the capital will be subject to a compound of up to RM2,000 in addition to community service for more than 12 hours for six months.
Meanwhile, for road enforcement, the traffic summons payment system has been replaced with the concept of “the less you delay, the less you pay”, offering a reduction of up to 50 per cent for early payment.
Youth and Politics: The youth age limit has been lowered to 30 years from 1 January following the amendment to the Youth Organisations and Youth Development (Amendment) Act 2019, emphasising the involvement of young people in youth organisations and leadership.
The Melaka State Election is also expected to be a focus in 2026, providing an indication of the people’s support ahead of the next general election.
Sports Agenda: 2026 will also be enlivened with the organisation of several sports agendas including the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) XXII Selangor 2026 which is scheduled to take place from August 15 to 24, involving 474 events from 37 types of sports.
Malaysia has also been awarded the hosting rights for two major aquatic tournaments in 2026, namely the Asian Water Polo Championship (Under 18) and the 48th SEA Age Group Aquatic Championship.
Malaysian Aquatics (MAS) in a earlier statement announced that the Asian Water Polo Championship (Under 18) scheduled to be held from March 9 to 15 at the National Aquatic Centre, Bukit Jalil will mark the country's first time hosting the event.
MP13: 2026 marks the beginning of the 13th Malaysia Plan (MP13) (2026-2030) based on three main principles, namely the formation of a sovereign and dignified nation-state, a social system based on MADANI people and the transition to a nation based on artificial intelligence.
The five-year development plan aims to create an inclusive and progressive society, in addition to making Malaysia a regional leader in digital technology through the production of innovation and world-class products and services 'Made by Malaysia'.
All these developments make 2026 not just a new year, but a year that demands the people to be more aware, ready to face changes and take advantage of what is and will be happening around them.
-- BERNAMA
