ARAU: The implementation of the Madani Subsidy Assistance (Budi Madani), the monthly financial assistance of RM200 to eligible groups following the targeted diesel subsidy shows that the government is not "washing its hands", leaving the people to face the rising cost of living on their own.

A retiree, Nasarudin Noh, 51, from Pauh, near here, said the RM200 cash aid might be negligible to some, but he feels that people should be grateful for the assistance, which is better than nothing.

"Even though the diesel price has increased, the government still provides RM200 aid to those using diesel daily. In my opinion, receiving RM200 every month is better than not getting any assistance," he told Bernama.

Nasarudin, who earns his living by repairing furniture such as sofas and leather chairs, said he drives his pickup truck to deliver goods to his customers and travels to Perak every weekend for family matters, adding that his application for the Budi Madani aid has been approved.

Nasarudin said he supports the government's targeted diesel subsidy initiative because it is in the nation's long-term interest, adding that he believes in line with this move, the government will also hold more Rahmah and Agro Madani sales to help the people.

Sharing the same sentiment, a farmer from Simpang Empat, near here who wishes to be known as Hasbullah, 39, said he has applied for the Budi Agri-Komoditi and eagerly awaits the RM200 monthly cash aid as it will help to lighten his burden.

"I often use my lorry to transport equipment for planting padi such as fertilisers…so I need this RM200 aid. Even though now (after the implementation of targeted diesel subsidy) filling up the tank costs me RM230, I am still grateful for this assistance," he said.

Hasbullah said the RM200 aid demonstrates the government's concern for the people's difficulties amidst the surge in diesel prices, adding that he hopes that the government will increase the amount to RM300 in the future.

The diesel price at all retail petrol stations in Peninsular Malaysia is RM3.35 per litre, the unsubsidised market price starting June 10.

The government introduced the Budi Madani initiative to ensure subsidy allocations target eligible groups and reduce the burden on those in need.

The application can be made at https:budimadani.gov.my, but there is no closing date. - BERNAMA

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/1064546/budi-madani-assistance-proves-govt-concerned- rising-cost-living