‘BR1M can boost economic growth’

BR1M not only reduces people's burden but also boosts economic growth, said Deputy Finance Minister Ahmad Maslan

KUALA LUMPUR: Giving out 1Malaysia People’s Aid (BR1M) will have a multiplier effect and spur economic growth as well as boost spending, said Deputy Finance Minister Ahmad Maslan.

Ahmad said BR1M was not only a cash handout to relieve the people’s burden but also to spur economic growth and consumption.

“The aid will help the local economy as the cash handouts will be used to buy goods and benefit pasar malam, sundry shops and shopping centres, he told FMT today.

Ahmad was responding to former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad’s suggestion that the aid be discontinued in Budget 2014 and other alternatives found to reduce people’s dependence on the government.

“When more people go shopping, local businesses can see a growth in their revenue,” he added.

Ahamad said the government should keep to its promises made before the 13th general election.

Minister in Prime Minister Department and Arau MP Shahidan Kassim said the government would continue giving the cash handouts.

Yesterday, Mahathir said the government should find a way to train the people especially the poor with skills that could become their source of income.

He had said that the people at times failed to appreciate the assitance given by the government.