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Government Introduces Financial Assistance In Light Of Covid-19

Government Introduces Financial Assistance In Light Of Covid-19

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The Covid-19 pandemic has been tough on global economies and social service structures. And with the country-wide Movement Control Order in effect from March 18 – 31, many are understandably anxious about how to simply get by the coronavirus crisis, financially.

The Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announcing a partial public lockdown on live national broadcasts on March 16, 2020.

But, in light of the viral outbreak, the government had introduced several aid programs in efforts to mitigate economic uncertainties and lessen the strain on the rakyat’s pockets.

These government aids are part of the RM20 billion Economic Stimulus Package (PRE2020), previously unveiled by Interim Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, now expanded upon by the current Perikatan Nasional government to include;

RM600 financial aid to employees on unpaid leave

Monthly financial assistance of RM600 will be given to employees who are made to take unpaid leave beginning March 1, 2020.

woman biting pencil while sitting on chair in front of computer during daytime
Many are also working from home in light of the coronavirus outbreak.
(Credit: JESHOOTS.COM/Unsplash)

Those who are covered under the Social Security Organisation’s (Perkeso) Employment Insurance Scheme (EIS), earning no more than RM4,000 per month are eligible to the aid program for a period of up to 6 months.

2% discount on electricity for commercial and domestic consumers

A TNB worker installing a "smart meter" in Melaka.
(Credit: SMG Business Services/MSN)

A 2% discount on electricity bills for all users in the commercial, industrial, and agriculture sectors as well as domestic users, like you and me, starting April 1 till September 30, 2020.

Additional financial aid for Bantuan Sara Hidup (BSH) program

Previously, BHS recipients were to receive an additional RM100 to be paid in May on top of an additional RM50 in the form of e-wallet credit.

Image result for malay mail bantuan sara hidup
(Credit: Bernama/Malay Mail)

Now, each BHS recipient is to receive an additional RM200 allowance to be brought forward from May to March 17, and an additional RM100 will be given again in May 2020.

Other measures implemented under PRE2020

  • RM400 special monthly critical allowance for doctors and medical personnel directly involved with Covid-19.
  • RM200 for immigration and other related frontline personnel, from February 2020 till the end of the pandemic.
  • RM600 one-off payment to; taxi drivers, tourist bus drivers, tourist guides and trishaw drivers.
  • Employees Provident Fund (EPF) contributors allowed a reduction of their monthly contribution to 7%, beginning April 1 until December 31, 2020.
  • Personal income tax relief of up to RM1,000 for traveling domestically.
  • Up to RM100 digital domestic tourism voucher for each Malaysian for domestic flights, rails, and hotel accommodation.

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