KUCHING: The Pemulih aid package is inclusive of more sectors but must be implemented efficiently to assist those who need help, says a Sarawak trade group.

       Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations president Datuk Richard Wee (pic) said the assistance announced in the government’s latest package covered more sectors and groups, including SMEs and M40 households.

       He welcomed the extension of the wage subsidy scheme with no salary limit conditions this time, as well as one-off cash handouts of RM3, 000 for registered childcare centres, private kindergartens and sports centres, including gym operators.

       “The wage subsidy extension is a significant measure which will help a lot of SMEs.

       “There is also a fair bit of assistance for sole proprietorships like childcare centres and gym operators.

       “This is what the business sector is looking for and what is needed to help them recover, ” he said.

       Wee also welcomed the inclusion of M40 households under the Bantuan Khas Covid-19 initiative as well as the loan moratorium for all individual borrowers, including those from the M40 and T20 groups.

       “Previous packages did not focus much on helping these groups. This time, there is very good assistance for them, ” he said.

       Wee called for the package to be implemented quickly and effectively to help the people.

       “The government’s intention is good but it is pointless if at the end of the day, the assistance does not reach those who need it, ” he said.