State welfare assistance for 30,000 reflects Melaka’s support for ageing population

MELAKA: Close to 30,000 locals have received assistance under welfare initiatives reflecting the state government’s push to strengthen social support amid Malaysia’s shift towards an ageing population, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh says. The Melaka Chief Minister said the assistance amounting to RM1.49mil until the end of November 2025, forms part of the state government’s efforts...

Govt fine-tuning proposal to replace subsidies with MyKad-based social aid

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is reviewing a plan to phase out blanket subsidies in favour of MyKad-based social aid, says Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying. She said the immediate priority, however, was to ensure the smooth rollout of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme, which forms the foundation of the government’s shift towards targeted aid...

Budi95 deemed fair by foreigners, locals urged to appreciate subsidy

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians are fortunate to benefit from lower petrol prices than foreigners under the Budi Madani RON95 (Budi95) initiative, a move that reflects the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens. Somali national Faisal Abdi Ali, 45, said the savings enjoyed by Malaysians under Budi95 help with household financial management, allowing funds to be...

Over RM348mil allocated for for social safety net in 2025 budget, says Johor exco

JOHOR BARU: A total of RM348.13mil has been allocated to the Johor Women, Family, and Community Development Committee as part of the state's Social Safety Net initiatives under the Johor Budget 2025. Committee chairman Khairin-Nisa Ismail said the comprehensive allocation seeks to address various needs of vulnerable groups, focusing on financial assistance, child welfare, support for...

Govt urged to rethink T15 subsidy cuts amid public concern

KUALA LUMPUR: The implementation of the targeted subsidies for the so-called T15 income bracket would place pressure on dual-income households, particularly working women, says Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman. The Muar Member of Parliament explained that if a dual-income household with an income of RM13,000 surpasses the T15 threshold, it will negatively impact the families listed...

Iran-Israel conflict: Mindef ready to deploy Armed Forces to secure safety of M’sian students

KOTA BHARU: The Defence Ministry (Mindef) is prepared to deploy the Armed Forces personnel to the Middle East to provide support in handling the safety of Malaysian students following the Iran-Israel conflict. Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said Mindef would discuss with the Foreign Affairs Ministry and obtain information on the latest developments of the situation...