The state government of Perak has allocated some RM40 million for the public health and welfare sectors in relieving the burdens of Perakeans hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the Menteri Besar of Perak, Dato’ Saarani Mohamad, more than 30 initiatives have been executed under the allocation which covers food boxes, rental exemption and the inception of drifters’ placement centres, among many others.
“The allocation is a part of two Economic Stimulus Packages (PRE) for Perak, worth more than RM200 million overall.
“The funds have also been channeled to COVID-19 frontliners, besides provision of facilities, additional medical equipment, one-off payment aids and food.
“All 59 state assembly member (ADUN) service centres around Perak received RM40,000 (RM20,000 x 2) for COVID-19 management at their respective areas, with additional RM20,000 for those who fall under implementation of the Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO).”
He said this when answering Bukit Chandan ADUN, Maslin Sham Razman, among other ADUNs, who wanted to know how the government is aiding communities of Perak affected by the pandemic during the DUN sitting today (August 27).
Saarani added that the state government allocated RM14.8 million for hawkers, small businesses and entrepreneurs who were affected the worst via one-off special aids, rental and licence renewal exemptions, along with bill payment discounts.
RM8.7 million was channeled to the education sector, while the tourism sector received RM2.8 million and the agricultural sectors received RM1.3 million.
“The PRE wouldn’t have made the cut without financial and non-financial contributions from several agencies and statutory bodies, such as the State Agricultural Development Corporation (SADC) which contributed RM1.9 million, as well as the Perak Water Board (LAP) and Menteri Besar Incorporated (MB Inc) that each contributed RM1 million, among many others.
“The Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) is not exempt, having contributed RM14.6 million in additional funds to help in the fight against COVID-19,” he mentioned.
Chris Teh
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