A TOTAL of 2.2 million applicants have received RM66 million under the e-tunai rakyat initiative as of yesterday, said Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng. 

This number is from 2.9 million applications received by the government, he said. 

Speaking at the launch of Cashless Ecosystem for Cyberjaya with Malaysia QR this afternoon, Lim said the response from the people on the newly launched e-wallet incentive was encouraging. 

“I have travelled to various locations across the country and I am pleased to report that there has been an encouraging response to this initiative. 

“As of 9pm yesterday, 2.9 million applications were received, 2.2 million approved with a total of RM66 million disbursed,” he said.

The initiative, which began on January 15, enables about 15 million people who are eligible to claim RM30 through three e-wallet vendors: Grab, Boost and Touch ‘n Go.

Meanwhile, Lim said that going cashless is one of Pakatan Harapan’s means to curb corruption.

The Bagan MP said that e-payment is an important and secure way to ensure those who are qualified receive targeted subsidies without any unnecessary fees and  commissions.

“When PH took over, we are committed to restoring trust in the government by implementing reforms for a competent, accountable and transparent governance.

“Going cashless is a priority. It is a way to curb corruption. All transactions are recorded, leaving no room to accept or give bribes.”

Lim added that the United Nations estimates US$2 trillion (RM8.1 trillion) a year is wasted on corruption. – January 20, 2020.