BATU PAHAT, July 5 — The govt will continue to strengthen support for Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) as part of efforts to expand assistance to those in need nationwide.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the move aims to ensure no group, especially in rural areas, is left out of govt initiatives.

“We can spend billions on ports and highways, but for villagers, this is one of the efforts we are carrying out through AIM, which we have elevated into one of the best programmes in the world.

“I was among those who helped establish AIM, and I have decided we will continue to focus on this programme. While many agencies assist the people, some are still not getting help or accidentally left out,” he said at the AIM Kenduri Rakyat Programme here today.

Also present were Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil and Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the AIM microfinancing scheme is among the best initiatives of its kind globally and is difficult to match, including by Bangladesh’s Grameen Bank.

He said while microfinancing models exist worldwide, AIM stands out for its significantly lower, borrower-friendly interest rates.

“Previously, the loans were small, but we gradually increased them over time.

“It is true some say Professor Muhammad Yunus’ Grameen Bank is good, but it is not the same as ours. Their interest rates can reach 12 to 15 per cent, and in other places up to 25 per cent, while AIM does not apply such rates,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister dismissed claims that he only assists the people during election periods.

Anwar said his frequent attendance at AIM programmes reflects his continued commitment to the welfare of the rakyat, especially the underprivileged, and not a political gimmick to win votes.

“Everywhere during election campaigns, everyone comes forward to help the people, but the reality is I am among the Prime Ministers who have attended AIM programmes most often. Why? Because I never forget the grassroots, don’t just attend official large-scale events.

“No Prime Minister would be willing to attend such programmes seven or eight times. I know that when we go down to the ground, we are always discussing the future of our country. We must remember that if we do not make good and wise decisions, we will be left behind,” he said.

On Johor's development, Anwar said the southernmost state has benefited significantly from Federal Government development initiatives, including funding for highways, bridges and major infrastructure projects. — Bernama