22 - Equitable Distribution Programme (1979)

Summary

Introductory Note: Equitable distribution of wealth is such an important element of development that it is often said it is one of the goals of development. However, if this equity should not materialize, and become just a mere slogan, this would ruin our development efforts. Therefore, equity and all facets of equal justice on all levels for all people should become an inherent element or an inalienable factor in development. In other words, equity must be transformed into a programme or programmes inseparable from development. Failing this, equity will become a mere catchword and our development efforts will not succeed.

National development efforts put a great deal of emphasis on equity. This reflects the people's aspirations to uphold social justice.

The elements of equity in the Trilogy of Development are translated into eight programmes, known as the Eight Tracks to Equity, which comprise:

1. – equity in fulfilling basic needs. Because human needs are manifold, great emphasis is placed on three basic needs: food, clothing and housing.

2. – equity in opportunity to get education and health services. Hence, equity is not just a matter of the physical; it also covers the right to education and health.

3. – equity in income. Not in the sense of an equal amount of income, but of equity in income distribution.

4. – equity in employment opportunity. Employment is one of the fundamental issues in our national development.

5. – equity in business opportunity.

6. – equity in opportunities to participate in development, particularly for the younger generation and women.

7. – equity in the distribution of the development process throughout the country. Ours is a vast country. Equity in development is a must.

8. – equality before the law. This is a very important matter and should be transformed into a programme.

I repeat, the first equity programme is for the provision of basic needs, particularly food, clothing and housing; the second one is for education and health services; the third is for income distribution; the fourth is for employment opportunities, the fifth is for business opportunities, the sixth is for the opportunity to take part in development, particularly for the younger generation and women; the seventh is for development distribution throughout the country, the eighth is equity before the law.