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New Straits Times
2 hours ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Penang CM calls for sustainable solutions beyond RM100 aid
GEORGE TOWN: While the RM100 one-off aid under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) initiative is very much welcomed, Malaysians are looking for more substantial and lasting measures to combat the rising cost of living, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. Chow, while acknowledging the government's effort amid tight fiscal constraints, stressed the need for forward-looking policies that provide long-term relief for the rakyat. "The RM100 one-off aid is a helpful gesture during tough times, but I believe Malaysians hope for long-term solutions to the rising cost of living. "While the government faces financial constraints, we need policies that create jobs and support businesses. "I urge everyone to give Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim time and space to manage current economic challenges effectively," he said on his Facebook page. In a televised address as an "extraordinary tribute" to Malaysians, Anwar announced that all Malaysians aged 18 and above would receive a one-off RM100 payment, which would benefit 22 million citizens. Anwar also announced a slew of assistance to ease the people's cost of living. Elaborating, Chow said the incentive, which would cost the government billions, was much appreciated. "However, what the people really want are comprehensive solutions — initiatives that lower the cost of doing business, infrastructure projects that generate employment and strategies that stimulate economic growth," he added, urging the federal government to expedite the disbursement and simplify the application processes related to aid programmes, ensuring that assistance reached those in need without delay. Addressing concerns over economic pressures, Chow expressed confidence in Anwar's leadership, calling for him to be given sufficient time and space to manage the challenges, including the United States' tariff situation that could affect exports. He said Anwar should be given a free hand to mediate and mitigate the current situation.
Malaysiakini
3 hours ago
- Politics
- Malaysiakini
'Did you read PM's announcement?': DAP man pans Wee's RM100 return idea
DAP assistant national organising secretary Lee Chin Chen has taken a swipe at MCA president Wee Ka Siong for suggesting that the government set up a mechanism to allow people to return the RM100 Rahmah Necessities Aid (Sara) if they do not need it. In a Facebook post, Lee (above) said it was clear that Wee did not properly listen to or read Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's announcement this morning.
Borneo Post
3 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
'Appreciation for the People' initiative more populist than practical, says S'wak activist
Voon noted that while RM100 may seem minor to individuals, the overall payout amounts to hundreds of millions of ringgit from public funds – resources largely underwritten by the business community. KUCHING (July 23): Social activist Voon Shiak Ni has criticised the federal government's recently announced 'Appreciation to the People' initiative, calling it a populist move that raises more concerns than confidence among small business owners and taxpayers. She said the RM100 one-off cash handout for all adult Malaysians, along with the declaration of a public holiday on Sept 16, may have been welcomed by some, but lacked strategic value and long-term economic rationale. 'From the perspective of business operators and taxpayers, it is not just about the cost – it is about the principle. 'It reportedly took several days for the government to reach this decision following public anticipation of a salary adjustment for civil servants. 'What emerged instead was a populist substitute ― quick to please, but lacking in meaningful substance,' she said in a statement today Voon noted that while RM100 may seem minor to individuals, the overall payout amounts to hundreds of millions of ringgit from public funds – resources largely underwritten by the business community. 'To many of us, it appears more like a political gesture to boost popularity than a targeted policy aimed at addressing real economic needs,' she said. She also questioned the abrupt announcement of the public holiday, citing the hidden costs borne by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly those operating on tight schedules or dependent on daily wage earners. 'For these businesses, the impact is real – lost productivity, disrupted workflows, and increased overtime costs. These are not theoretical burdens; they are everyday realities,' she said. While voicing support for people-centred policies, Voon urged the federal government to pursue initiatives that are inclusive, sustainable and grounded in long-term planning rather than short-term populism. As an example, she pointed to the Sarawak government's Senior Citizens Health Benefits programme, which she described as a more inclusive and dignified model. 'This initiative benefits all Sarawakians aged 60 and above, regardless of race or background. It reflects a model of universal dignity without side-lining any group. 'We hope Putrajaya can learn from such models and shift its focus toward sustainable reform instead of fleeting applause,' she said. Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the RM100 cash aid – to be distributed via MyKad — is part of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme in conjunction with Merdeka Day. The RM2 billion initiative is expected to benefit 22 million Malaysians and can be used at over 4,100 participating retail outlets from Aug 31 to Dec 31. With this latest rollout, total spending for the Sara and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) programmes this year will reach RM15 billion, up from RM13 billion in 2024. Appreciation to the People Voon Shiak Ni
Borneo Post
3 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
'Appreciation to the People' initiative more populist than practical, says S'wak activist
Voon noted that while RM100 may seem minor to individuals, the overall payout amounts to hundreds of millions of ringgit from public funds – resources largely underwritten by the business community. KUCHING (July 23): Social activist Voon Shiak Ni has criticised the federal government's recently announced 'Appreciation to the People' initiative, calling it a populist move that raises more concerns than confidence among small business owners and taxpayers. She said the RM100 one-off cash handout for all adult Malaysians, along with the declaration of a public holiday on Sept 16, may have been welcomed by some, but lacked strategic value and long-term economic rationale. 'From the perspective of business operators and taxpayers, it is not just about the cost – it is about the principle. 'It reportedly took several days for the government to reach this decision following public anticipation of a salary adjustment for civil servants. 'What emerged instead was a populist substitute ― quick to please, but lacking in meaningful substance,' she said in a statement today Voon noted that while RM100 may seem minor to individuals, the overall payout amounts to hundreds of millions of ringgit from public funds – resources largely underwritten by the business community. 'To many of us, it appears more like a political gesture to boost popularity than a targeted policy aimed at addressing real economic needs,' she said. She also questioned the abrupt announcement of the public holiday, citing the hidden costs borne by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly those operating on tight schedules or dependent on daily wage earners. 'For these businesses, the impact is real – lost productivity, disrupted workflows, and increased overtime costs. These are not theoretical burdens; they are everyday realities,' she said. While voicing support for people-centred policies, Voon urged the federal government to pursue initiatives that are inclusive, sustainable and grounded in long-term planning rather than short-term populism. As an example, she pointed to the Sarawak government's Senior Citizens Health Benefits programme, which she described as a more inclusive and dignified model. 'This initiative benefits all Sarawakians aged 60 and above, regardless of race or background. It reflects a model of universal dignity without side-lining any group. 'We hope Putrajaya can learn from such models and shift its focus toward sustainable reform instead of fleeting applause,' she said. Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the RM100 cash aid – to be distributed via MyKad — is part of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme in conjunction with Merdeka Day. The RM2 billion initiative is expected to benefit 22 million Malaysians and can be used at over 4,100 participating retail outlets from Aug 31 to Dec 31. With this latest rollout, total spending for the Sara and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) programmes this year will reach RM15 billion, up from RM13 billion in 2024. Appreciation to the People Voon Shiak Ni
Borneo Post
4 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
One-off RM100 cash aid a step in the right direction, says Kuching South Mayor
Wee speaks to reporters today. – Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (July 23): Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has welcomed the federal government's RM100 cash aid initiative, describing it as a timely move to ease the financial burden of Malaysians amid rising living costs. Speaking to reporters at MBKS today, Wee said the assistance, though modest in amount, reflects the government's commitment to help the people during challenging times. 'In times like these, everyone has a responsibility and a role to play,' he said. He was asked to comment on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's announcement earlier today of the cash assistance aimed at easing Malaysia's rising cost of living. He said this one-off assistance under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme, will be credited via MyKad for purchases of essential goods between Aug 31 and Dec 31 at 4,100 stores nationwide. Wee also noted that the initiative shows leadership and concern for the rakyat's well-being. While some may see RM100 as a small sum, Wee believes it's a step in the right direction — one that shows sincerity and could lead to more substantial support in the future as the country's finances improve. 'During this hard time, you know, some of the people look at it as a small help, but it's an effort they put up. 'We start small, and when the country's finances recover, there might be more to come. 'So whatever effort they put in, it is good for the rakyat (people),' he said. Wee also urged the public to adopt a more constructive attitude rather than criticising such initiatives outright. 'Some of the people say it's only a RM100, but better than nothing, is it not? 'If we can help, I think it's an initiative worth supporting. 'If we receive it, RM100 is still RM100. 'Who knows? Maybe another few more months, you might receive RM500, then later on increase to RM1,000. 'So look at it in a more positive way,' he said. He called on Malaysians to remain united and supportive, especially when genuine efforts are being made to assist the public. 'We all want to be proud of our country. So when leaders make an effort, we should take it in a positive spirit. 'If you want to comment, make sure it's constructive, don't just criticise.' Wee concluded by encouraging Malaysians to stay positive and move forward together, even through difficult times. anwar ibrahim RM100 cash assistance Wee Hong Seng
