Perak government allocates nearly RM32 million for water subsidies and rebates, benefiting B40 households with free water and monthly bill reductions
IPOH: The Perak government has spent nearly RM32 million on water subsidy and rebate programmes as of October this year.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said the initiative aims to ease living costs, particularly for the B40 group.
Registered low-income and hardcore poor households receive 25 cubic metres of free water monthly, valued at RM20.40.
Eligible households must be registered with and receiving aid from the Social Welfare Department, Department of Orang Asli Development, or Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council.
“If water consumption is below the allocated rate, no payment will be imposed,” Saarani told the State Legislative Assembly.
All domestic account holders in Perak also receive a monthly water bill rebate of RM4.
The Menteri Besar was responding to Dr Najihatussalehah Ahmad’s question about strengthening the social safety net in Budget 2026.
A study by Institut Darul Ridzuan identified food, housing and utility bills as the main burden for Perak residents.
Saarani said the state government constantly reviews current needs to enhance B40 assistance in urban and rural areas.
He stressed this depends on the state’s financial situation and current policy commitments.
“The state government is committed to ensuring that state revenues benefit the people of Perak comprehensively,” he said.
Assistance distribution emphasises coordination between departments to prevent duplication and ensure fair reach.
Various initiatives will continue under Budget 2026, including increased Social Welfare Department General Assistance.
The allocation for General Assistance rises from RM31 million to RM37 million monthly.
Perak Sejahtera Card funding increases from RM24 million to RM24.5 million.
Food Box Assistance Programme allocation grows from RM5 million to RM6 million.
The state government also allocated RM3 million for the Sayangi Rumahku Programme as a revolving fund.
This programme assists with housing needs through Yayasan Perak.
Other continuing initiatives include Rahmah Sales and the Perak Sejahtera Bus Programme. – Bernama
