Budget 2026 boosts tax relief for childcare expenses
The government’s Budget 2026 plan to expand tax relief for childcare and preschool costs will help ease living expenses for low- and middle-income families and encourage more women to work. Dr Amini Amir Abdullah from Universiti Putra Malaysia believes this will especially benefit working women, who face challenges balancing work and childcare.
He noted that female labor participation is lower than men’s, with many women unable to work due to childcare responsibilities. The policy aims to improve work-life balance and increase demand for quality, regulated childcare services.
The initiative could also formalize unregistered childcare providers, raising safety standards and creating new jobs. Women’s rights groups are cheering the move, especially the additional legal aid for single mothers facing divorce and custody battles.
