[UPDATED] Total assistance for flood victims can reach RM61,000: PM

KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri announced various financial assistance packages for flood victims during his year-end and New Year’s Eve speech tonight.

He told the nation that depending on the extent of the losses and damages suffered by a family, some heads of households can get up to RM61,000 in financial aid.

Previously, the Bera MP announced that each family affected by the disaster would receive a RM1,000 aid through the Wang Ihsan Fund.

Additionally, cash vouchers of up to RM500 are available to purchase electronic items to replace those which were destroyed in the floods.

However, these purchases can only be made at premises or e-commerce platforms recognised by the Energy and Natural Resources Ministry.

“This programme will begin on January 7,” Ismail Sabri said.

Meanwhile national automotive companies Perodua and Proton have also offered exemption over towing and repair fees, in addition to a 50% discount on spare parts.

At the same time, Putrajaya will also provide a RM1,000 cash voucher to either repair vehicles damaged by the floods, or to buy a new vehicle.

The federal administration will provide cash assistance up to RM5,000 to each household to repair minor or less serious damages to their homes.

“For serious damage, the government will provide repairs up to RM15,000 in costs.

“As for homes that are destroyed or inhabitable, the government will assist up to RM56,000 in costs for each new housing unit,” Ismail added.

The prime minister also acknowledged contributions by NGOs and volunteers who provided basic necessities to the victims.

To avoid any overlap, the government also agrees to provide up to RM2,500 in cash aid for the purchase of basic necessities.

“These cash assistance programmes can exceed RM10,000 per family. This is the government’s effort to reduce the rakyat’s burden without EPF withdrawals.

“For those whose homes have been destroyed, in total, the financial assistance is far greater and can exceed RM61,000,” Ismail Sabri explained. – The Vibes, December 31, 2021