In special address, PM reemphasises commitment to safeguarding rakyat's welfare

By Adib Povera

January 31, 2021 @ 9:24pm

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will continue its efforts to reduce the cost of living and implementing comprehensive social protection programmes to ensure that people from vulnerable as well as low-income groups are not left behind in the country's development.

In his Federal Territory Day celebration special address, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the government's commitment is reflected in the slew of initiatives under the 2021 Budget, and the implementation of several programmes including the Perlindungan Ekonomi dan Rakyat Malaysia (Permai) assistance package.

The government, he said, will ensure that all necessary assistance reaches targeted groups, as he is aware of the challenges beleaguering the people, irrespective of backgrounds.

"This is proven in the 2021 Budget, which was formulated by placing special focus on initiatives to provide assistance to people affected by adverse economic impacts brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

"To prove that the government will not compromise in ensuring the wellbeing of the people, I announced the rolling out of Permai, which include additional initiatives (announced) on Jan 18.

"The Permai assistance package is the government's effort to safeguard welfare, and ensure sustainability in the lives of the people following the implementation of the Movement Control Order (MCO 2.0)," he said in his speech.