KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today announced a RM15 billion assistance package called the Perlindungan Ekonomi dan Rakyat Malaysia (Permai) package.

A total of 22 initiatives will be implemented under Permai with the aim to combat the Covid-19 outbreak, safeguarding the welfare of the people as well as supporting business continuity.

According to Muhyiddin, the Permai assistance package will be financed through the re-allocation of existing federal funds.

"As such, I am pleased to announce today the Perlindungan Ekonomi dan Rakyat Malaysia (Permai) assistance package, valued at RM15 billion. 

"In general, the Permai assistance package improves on the existing on-going initiatives and also accelerates the implementation of related initiatives.

"To finance the Permai assistance package, the government will re-allocate existing funds based on current priorities and through more prudent spending.

"The Government will also ensure that all initiatives announced are implemented expediently and effectively," he said in a special address to the nation aired lived on national television channels today.

In its effort to combat the spread of Covid-19, the prime minister said the government has provided an additional allocation of RM1 billion, of which RM800 million is for the Ministry of Health and the balance for the National Security Council and other relevant agencies.

He said the allocation focuses on supplies, including additional reagents and screening kits as well as PPE equipment, specifically for healthcare frontliners.

To safeguard the people's welfare, Muhyiddin said there are various initiatives included under Permai to help those affected by the Movement Control Order (MCO), especially the vulnerable groups and informal workers who are dependent on daily wages.

"The government understands that during MCO, all types of businesses face various challenges including difficulties in managing cash flow as well as utility and rental payments.

"As such, the government will endeavour to reduce the business sector's burden through several measures," he said. 

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2021/01/658371/pm-announces-permai-financial-assistance-package