ISKANDAR PUTERI – The state government today announced a “Bantuan Kasih Bangsa Johor” (BKBJ) special incentive to cover 28 initiatives with an allocation of RM144.36 million, as an appreciation to the people of Johor.
Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the initiatives would benefit 3.69 million people in the state.
He said the state government is aware that the people are now adjusting to the new norms, especially now that economic activity is in full swing after the opening of the Johor-Singapore border last week.
“Nevertheless, the Johor government realises that many still need help and support.
“As such, we will strive to be kind and to help all layers of the Bangsa Johor society,” he told a special press conference at Bangunan Dato’ Jaafar Muhammad, Kota Iskandar, here today.
The special incentive was drawn up with the intention to share good fortune with the people of Johor regardless of race, religion, origin, ethnicity, rank, or background, said Onn Hafiz.
The handover of the BKBJ, which covers five categories namely community, welfare, Johor youth, education and economy will soon be implemented in stages.
“Insya-Allah Johoreans will receive the aid ahead of the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations. Due to time factors, some will receive it soon after Raya. No matter what, the state government will expedite distribution.
“The exco members and I hope that this contribution will bring a little relief and joy to all. The welfare, well-being and prosperity of the people and the state has always been the state government’s priority,” he added.
Among the initiatives announced is a special Aidilfitri assistance of RM400 to 85,800 tithe recipients involving RM14.2 million in funds.
Assistance will also be given to children who were orphaned after losing their parents due to Covid-19, involving 1,825 recipients with an allocation of RM3 million.
“In addition, rent payment exemption for 2022 will be given to 11,511 people’s housing programme tenants involving an allocation of RM22.25 million,” he said, adding that 3,020 government housing tenants would also be given rental exemption involving funds of RM3.95 million.
The menteri besar also announced a RM300 assistance to 11,790 gig economy workers, taxi drivers, e-hailing drivers, and food delivery riders; 2,400 public and express bus drivers; and 11,267 fishermen registered with the Fisheries Department.
Some 50,830 stall owners will also enjoy rental payment exemption on premises and stalls owned by the local authorities for 12 months, involving a fund of RM26.18 million.
To boost the tourism sector, RM2,000 assistance will be given to 98 budget hotel operators and 98 travel agencies, while RM1,000 assistance will be given to 635 tourist guides, 386 homestay operators and 82 tour boat operators. – Bernama, April 14, 2022
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