KUALA LUMPUR: The government has increased the allocation for phase 2 of the cash assistance programme for B40, Rahmah Cash Contribution (Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah), by 20 per cent to RM1.5 billion compared with RM1.26 billion last year.
The Finance Ministry said starting from Wednesday, 8.4 million people would receive payments ranging from RM100 to RM650.
It added that households earning less than RM1,500 would receive RM150 to RM650, while households earning between RM2,500 and RM5,000 would receive RM100 to RM300.
Meanwhile, senior citizens without partners would receive RM150 and single individuals would receive RM100.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also finance minister, said the economic reforms led by the Madani government were not only aimed at improving the nation's finances, but were also fuelled by a desire to ensure that the country's wealth was more equitably shared among the people.
"God willing, the government will increase cash assistance to people in line with the improvement in the nation's fiscal position, including the implementation of targeted subsidies for those who need them."
Existing Rahmah Cash Contribution recipients and new registrants would receive payments through their bank accounts or cash distribution via Bank Simpanan Nasional in stages.
Beginning this year, the government has adopted a new approach to open registrations for Rahmah Cash Contribution throughout the year to provide opportunities for more people to benefit from government assistance.
The number of recipients is expected to increase this year.
Verification of eligibility status and frequently asked questions can be found on the portal via the link https://bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my.