Budget 2014: 'Focus on peoples happiness index'

The 2014 Budget which is scheduled for tabling in October will focus on the people's happiness index in both urban and rural areas.

Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Ahmad Maslan said among the aspects that would be emphasized were comfortability and security.

"Having to go through time-consuming journey to and from work due to traffic congestion, besides suffering disturbed sleep and insecurity, symbolised that we (the people) are not happy," he told reporters after attending the Aidilfitri do co-organised by An-Najihin Mosque and non-governmental organisations here on Sunday.

"Therefore, the Finance Ministry will study in detail the people's happiness index so that it can be improved and the people will be more happy," he said.

He said 70 per cent of the 29 million people in the country were currently residing in urban areas, while 22,000 villages were being occupied by eight other million people.