Cash Handouts: A Necessity in Supporting the People
KUALA LUMPUR: Barisan Nasional MP Wee Ka Siong has stated that cash handouts, previously criticized as bribes, remain the best way to help the people following the increased allocation for the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) initiative.
Increase in Allocation
The increase from RM10 billion to RM13 billion announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during the tabling of the 2025 budget on Friday will stimulate the economy. This will allow households to receive a maximum of RM4,600 in aid, while unmarried and elderly Malaysians can get RM600.
Justification for Cash Handouts
Wee, who is also the MCA president, believes that the BN government was right to channel Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia (BR1M) aid, despite being called "dedak" or bribes. "Now (cash handouts) are being continued, because they help the people face life’s challenges. I have no problem with this. It is best for us to move on," he said.
Critique of Two-Tiered Subsidy System
Wee also expressed his concern over the proposed two-tiered system for targeted subsidies, which will see households in the top 15% income bracket pay market price for RON95 petrol. He believes that this will complicate matters for station operators, workers, and consumers. Instead, he suggested that petrol levies be included in the fees paid by T15 users renewing their road tax for vehicles worth RM300,000 and above.
Access to Education and Health
Wee also took issue with the government’s decision to reduce subsidies for education and health for T15 citizens. He believes that good access to health and education is the government’s main responsibility, and it should not leave out any group in the country. "The basics of education and health should be free for all citizens," he said.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the increase in allocation for the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah initiative is a step in the right direction to support the people. While some may view cash handouts as bribes, Wee believes that they are a necessary measure to help the people face life’s challenges. However, more can be done to improve access to education and health for all citizens.
FAQs
- What is the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) initiative?
The STR initiative is a cash handout program aimed at supporting the people. - What is the increase in allocation for the STR initiative?
The allocation has been increased from RM10 billion to RM13 billion. - Who is eligible for the cash handout?
Households, unmarried individuals, and elderly Malaysians are eligible for the cash handout. - What is the maximum amount that households can receive?
The maximum amount that households can receive is RM4,600. - What is the proposed two-tiered system for targeted subsidies?
The proposed system will see households in the top 15% income bracket pay market price for RON95 petrol.