Welfare and progressive economics on the back of macro-economic fundamentals

BUDGET 2022 was in many respects one that tried to impress as prihatin (caring) and indeed the needs and concerns of the rakyat was addressed to a large extent. This was especially pertinent in relation to welfare assistance – as there was no letting up in the provision of cash handouts or transfers.

Under Strategy 1: "Restoring Lives and Livelihoods", Bantuan Keluarga Malaysia (BKM) will be introduced to enhance Bantuan Prihatin Rakyat (BPR) as its amount is a bit higher (RM2,000 compared to RM1,800) and the coverage more targeted (e.g., additional assistance of RM500 to single parent households).