Malaysia Unveils Singapore-Style Aid to Help Poor Beat Inflation

Malaysia announced plans to provide direct aid to low-income households, mimicking steps taken by neighbor Singapore to reduce the hit from surging inflation on the most vulnerable groups.

Cash assistance of up to 100 ringgit ($23) will be given to eligible recipients, bringing the total handout provided so far to 500 ringgit each, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said in a televised address on Wednesday. This round of assistance will cost the government 630 million ringgit and will be disbursed starting Monday, he said.