SHAH ALAM: The government is considering using monthly cash transfers as the method for implementing targeted subsidies, said Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli.
He said the monthly cash transfer method, if implemented, would be the first time it is done.
"The government is currently discussing using monthly cash transfers as the proposed method of implementation.
"This approach has never been offered to the people before. Previously, eligible recipients of such programmes received aid once every three or four months.
"(And) through Padu (Central Database Hub), we want to reform the people's social assistance in the long term.
"What is being considered right now is through monthly cash transfer model, like an additional sum to the monthly salary and there will be a range (of amount)," he during the Padu town hall held at MBSA Convention Centre here today.
Rafizi was responding to a question by one of the attendees, who asked if there would be an expiry date to the cash assistance if it were to be given via e-wallets.
Previously, there had been suggestions for monthly cash transfers to be used as the method for targeted subsidies.
Among those who had suggested it were Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, who said cash transfers would be the best method.
Johari, who is also former second finance minister, said the method would be easier to conceptualise.
Echoing his sentiment was former deputy international trade and industry minister Ong Kian Ming, who had said it was the "right and easy" mechanism to be implemented.